Ages 10-18 Approved Movies Category from KIDS FIRST!

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BLIND SIDE, THE

BLIND SIDE, THE
WARNER HOME VIDEO
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - "The Blind Side" depicts the story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family who help him fulfill his potential. At the same time, Oher's presence in the Touhys' lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own. Living in his new environment, the teen faces a completely different set of challenges to overcome. As a football player and student, Oher works hard and, with the help of his coaches and adopted family, becomes an All-American offensive left tackle.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Fantastic! More movies need to be made that are like this film! It is a thought-provoking, uplifting movie that is highly entertaining. This is a great family film that you can enjoy with your elementary, middle school, high school and even college kids. Sandra Bullock is a spitfire as Leigh Anne Touhy, a well-to-do wife and mom, with a compassionate heart. The film is based on the true story of the gentle, giant--Michael Oher, a homeless black teenager, who is taken in by the affluent Leigh Ann and her family and who eventually, with his new family's encouragement, becomes a football star! Oher is currently playing in the NFL. The acting is great, especially on the part of Sandra Bullock, who won an Oscar as Best Actress for this role. The story is skewed towards the positive of what was going on, but it isn't syrupy. The film inspires and make one feel hopeful about the world at large. There is no sex or graphic violence, just a super interesting story and some good filmmaking. Sit back, relax and enjoy. We recommend this film to families, and particularly those interested in sports.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it. "I liked EVERYTHING about the film. The characters made you root for them. The story made me feel good about trying for a good future. The filming was good because you would forget you were watching a movie." "The acting and the words they used were great and meaningful. The scenes and sets were so real feeling I forgot I was watching a movie. The costumes were great too. I liked how Big Mike first picked striped shirts that made him look like a big bumble bee. They used the costumes to show different life styles. You got to know everybody like family." "My favorite part was the sports action scenes. Especially when Michael pushed the bully over the wall. I like the scenes where Michael suddenly realized he could do it and got really great at football and how surprised the other team was and how happy his team was." "I would recommend this film to friends. And I did recommend it to friends and family and they liked it too because it's a very meaningful movie and it's a true story. It is for kids age 10 and up because of a little bit rougher scene with a group of guys Michael used to hang out with and I think really little kids wouldn't understand the story. But for 10 and up they will love it, even grown-ups. It is a family kind of film."
Runtime: 129 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 28.98
Media: DVD

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title

PARENTAL CONTROL
SUMMIT FROM NUTHIN PRODUCTIONS LTD
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - A quirky five minute comedy about a mischievous young boy who tries to control his parents via a computer. Set in a sleepy suburban town, it is mostly non dialogue and focuses on the journey and mystery of what the boy is up to and whether he can get away with it.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cute, nicely constructed story with enough suspense to hold your interest. Acting is well done, production values very good. This would make a nice short for any interstitial programming in a film festival or broadcast.
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

FOR A FISTFUL OF SNOW
JULIEN EZRI
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - A long time ago, terror, loathing and power reigned over the Wild Wild North. The foolishness of the inhabitants led them to battle for anything, even... for a Fistful of Snow
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Oh gosh, this is absolutely riveting. Great claymation ever so clever expressions. Storyline delivered in under 6 minutes is coolly delivered with a humorous ending. Wonderful shirt for interstitial programming.
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

GIRL, THE CITY, THE MAGI, THE
GREGORY BREHM
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 8-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - This is a modern, urban fairy tale. It's a story about a small girl with a pure heart, big dreams and little clue how to achieve them. Her life changes one morning when she is visited by mystical wise men who offer her three gifts to make her dreams come true. Their visit launches the Girl's frantic quest to literally become an overnight success on the streets of The City. Music by Emmy-winning composer, Allan Philips.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What a fun film! Narrated in iambic pentameter verse, this is a sure tickle your funny bone kind of title that offers good talking points for young girls.
Runtime: 9 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

KITES
JED HENRY
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE, ANIM
Topic - Family
Description - A young boy mourns the loss of his grandfather, and is astonished when he returns for one last visit.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This short non-narrative films is wonderfully animated. The surprise of the returning Grandpa who brings the boy a kite is beautifully illustrated and brings the boy happiness for a brief few minutes when he flies the beautiful dragon kite about the sky.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

NICKEL, THE
SMALLTOWN PICTURES
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - A paranormal concept of token-object reading is explored visually when an inquisitive child discovers a familiar piece of currency with an unfamiliar face on it.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Have you ever thought about the history of a coin? When you pick up a nickel, dated 1929, do you ever think about it's journey, where it has been, how many people have touched it, how they spent it? Here's a sweet short that explores that very idea. Lovely. Thought provoking. I loved it, especially the grandpa who magically made it appear out of his ear. Nicely produced as well.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

ALEX AND THE GHOSTS
CITE AMERIQUE
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATED
Topic - Family
Description - A story of childhood magic and wonderment around a legendary hockey team. Uniting past and present, reaching out to the youthful hearts of sport fans of all ages.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautiful animation, compelling storyline. Anyone with an interest in sports would be particularly drawn to this. In the boy's dream, he visits famous Canadian hockey players from the past when his grandfather was an usher at the Old Forum. Charming.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

FINN ON THE FLY (2010)

FINN ON THE FLY (2010)
E1 ENTERTAINMENT
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - The lives of Finn, a life-loving, Frisbee-playing dog, and his shy, 13-year-old owner, Peter are changed forever when a lab experiment goes wrong and Finn is accidentally transformed into a human. Once on two legs, Finn teaches Ben to feel the wind in his fur, catch Frisbees like a dog and, ultimately, to find his own pack. Starring Ana Gasteyer (The Women, Saturday Night Live, What Women Want), Matthew Knight, Ryan Belleville, Brendon Firla and David Milchard. Directed by Mark Jean (Homecoming) Winner of "Best Independent Feature for Ages 8-12, KIDS FIRST! Best 2009."
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Love this indie feature about a dog who accidentally gets turned into a boy. If you can imagine how you would behave under these circumstances, that's exactly how this dude does. Then, he saves the day by helping Ben's team winner the Frisbee match. His reward - to be turned back into a dog. Cute and funny. Well produced
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids really got a kick out of the storyline. It's so improbable, yet makes you laugh at the very idea of it. The boys particularly enjoyed it and talked about what their life would be like if their dog became a human. "Yup, my friends would definitely like this because it's so funny."
Runtime: 101 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 24.98
Media: DVD

Buy Here (from E1 ENTERTAINMENT)

GHOST PLAYER - RELIVE THE MAGIC
XXX
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Baseball magic didn't end when "The Field of Dreams" wrapped. This documentary-style film tells how players from the film spent over a decade walking out of the corn and entertaining families around the world through baseball.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Ghost Players put on comedy routines during baseball games, similar to the Harlem Globetrotters in basketball, and held clinics where children could learn about playing baseball. They traveled around the world holding what was called "The greatest show on dirt" in countries such as Japan and at numerous military bases. The Ghost Players held fundraisers for charities and shared with others the love of the sport. The film has some mild swearing, and the players drink alcohol, which might offend some viewers, but the message is overwhelmingly positive. Baseball lovers will most likely appreciate how a passion for the sport helped the Ghost Players affect the lives of thousands of people through baseball. "Ghost Player" broadens a child's global perspective while teaching subjects how to accomplish a specific task.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This DVD was surprisingly good. I liked how they did a documentation on a team that is really cool, but most people don't know about them. The camera work looked old, but it seemed to suit film. The team leader looked wealthy and that wasn't so great. You want to just think of them as players trying to make life better for people. The other players seemed to fit the part better. What they did was pretty awesome - how they affected people's lives. They swore and drank, but I guess that's in a lot of films. My favorite part was how they entertained people, and how I learned about the team. I think my friends might be interested in the general concept of this DVD. It would especially appeal to my friends who love baseball.
Runtime: 50 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 24.95
Media: DVD

FREE STYLE

FREE STYLE
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Cale Bryant (Bleu) needed someone to believe in him. Ever since he was young, he's wanted to race motocross professionally; but after a string of bad luck hits his family hard, the would-be champion is forced to put his dreams on hold. All that changes when he meets Alex (Sandra Echeverr�a, star of Telemundo's "Marina"), a beautiful girl who gives Cale encouragement, support and an old bike so that he can get back in the game again. Now, with Alex by his side, Cale takes on the challenge of his life: to beat the odds and cross the finish line a winner. Free Style also stars Penelope Ann Miller (Kindergarten Cop) and Madison Pettis (The Game Plan), and features music from star Corbin Bleu and The Jonas Brothers!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Winning the Amateur National Motocross Championship is Cale's (Corbin Bleu) ticket out of town where he can have the opportunity to make something of himself. The reality of making this dream come true is tenuous at best as Cale has to deal with the curves life throws at him. Filled with twists and turns, the plot isn't as straightforward or predictable as you might think. While you learn about motocross, the dangers and the thrills and the business itself, this film also deals with family relationships and dating relationships. Along with the message of clinging to dreams, there is also a strong message that sometimes the best way to make something of yourself is by dealing with the situations at hand in the place where you currently live. "Free Style" provides positive role models for interpersonal relationships and offers a positive and hopeful view of the future. It demonstrates the application of knowledge as it engages and entertains adults and children.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - It was exciting. The guy in yellow was a jerk. The main character's friends were nice to each other. It was all the motocross stuff I knew. My favorite parts were watching him build the dirt bike and winning. I didn't expect that chain to break. I like to have fun with the motocross racers, and I like to ride their bikes. The images were awesome - especially the jumps. The music was loud sometimes.
Runtime: 94 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 22.97
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

Buy Here (from TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT)

WALLACE & GROMIT: A MATTER OF LOAF AND DEATH.

WALLACE & GROMIT: A MATTER OF LOAF AND DEATH.
LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Looking for a fast way to earn dough, Wallace decides to make it. Armed with a batch of ovens, an army of robotic kneading arms and an old-fashioned windmill, Wallace & Gromit� start "Top Bun," their new bread-baking business. Sales rise quickly and Wallace falls head over buns in love with a seductive bread-industry icon, Piella Bakewell. But when bakers suddenly start disappearing, Gromit realizes that his master is in danger as he follows a twisting, turning trail of crumbs to solve a murder mystery that becomes�A MATTER OF LOAF AND DEATH!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A baker's dozen isn't so great when you're talking about murder. Wallace and his dog, Gromit, open "Top Bun," a bread baking business. They are quite successful, and life seems to be going well for Wallace, who falls in love with a bread industry icon named Piella Bakewell. Things aren't perfect, though. Twelve bakers have already been murdered, and Gromit soon realizes that Wallace might be the next victim. He does everything he can to save his master using entertaining, clever strategies that keep the viewing audience captive. "Wallace & Gromit" once again lives up to its reputation for excellent cinematography as the clay characters take on lives of their own through stop-motion animation. It offers a great use of humor, appropriate for its audience.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This is a bit different from the classic "Wallace & Gromit "movies in the sense that the older "Wallace & Gromit" movies were based upon Wallace's ideas and impulses - like going to the moon or building robots. The antagonist stemmed form Wallace's own ideas in the classic ones. This was more like "The Curse of the Were-Rabbit." I think my friends would like that it's different. It's claymation, not CGI, and you don't see that as often. It was a bit predictable, but was still funny. My favorite part was seeing the contraptions in the beginning that Wallace made.
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

Buy Here (from LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT)

FANTASTIC MR. FOX

FANTASTIC MR. FOX
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - A fox is in the henhouse, and this time you are rooting for him. This film, based on the child's book by Roald Dahl, is an entertaining stop-motion animation featuring the voices of Meryl Streep, George Clooney, Michael Gambon and Bill Murray.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - When Fox finds out he is going to be a father, he promises his wife that he is going to put his thieving ways behind him. He does not hold true to this promise, and chaos ensues as the farmers he steals from try to get him back, affecting the entire underground animal community. As he struggles to right things, the fox is also working on his relationship with his son while learning who he, himself, truly is. "Fantastic Mr. Fox" keeps the viewing audience riveted and assists children in working through problems and emotional issues. It inspires children to find reasonable, positive solutions to problems and promote the balance appreciation of self and others.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This movie was surprisingly good. It was enjoyable. You knew what was going to happen, but now how it was going to happen, which kept it interesting. The voices fit the parts well because they made the fox sound human with an animal-side, which is perfect. The animation was snappy, rather than smooth, but it fit the story. It looked almost perfect when the foxes were slinking around. I think my friends would love this because it's different. My favorite part was watching the fox steal the chickens. The conclusion was pretty realistic. They were happy enough.
Runtime: 87 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

Buy Here (from TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT)

LITTLE HERMIT, THE
LANCE MARTIN
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 5-12, ANIMATED
Topic - Family
Description - In the middle of nowhere there lies a peaceful little community called Hermitville. The Great Grand Wise Old Hermit warns his fellow hermits to avoid the strange land over the horizon. Hermy, a curious little hermit, sets off on his journey in search of this strange land.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Little Hermit desperately wants to see what the world outside of Hermitville is like so he embarks on a journey to discover exactly what is outside his "middle of nowhere" town. In the end, Little Hermit learns there is no place like home - a message we all can relate to. The narrator's voice is one of the most pleasant I've heard in some time. This is not full range animation. Instead, brightly colored illustrations are panned giving you a sense of movement. Its strength is in its storyline and its message about not taking what you have for granted. My only issue would be the portrayal of violence in the "big city", implicating the idea that the big city was to be feared. This would be a good talking point - and certainly big cities do have some violence, but so do small towns. We shouldn't encourage bias against big cities.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

KEEMO THE ARCHER

KEEMO THE ARCHER
MARK WINZER
Series: SCREENPLAY FOR AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - A young girl battles her cancer in a post-operative dream and discovers the fortitude to defeat her disease. Hope really can change the future. Nicole is a 12-year-old cancer patient introduced to us under sedation in a hospital room, awaiting further testing. The compassionate nurse and Nicole's exhausted mother inform us through their realistic and heartfelt dialogue of the gravity of this threat on her life and of the existence of medication-induced dreams. We are next thrown into her dream of running in terror from a horrible beast and the unexpected appearance of "Keemo the Archer" who "was sent" to help her. The action and interplay leave Nicole in a desperate condition comparable to what we envisioned in the hospital room. But, Keemo's bravery and counsel inspire her to summoning courage and strength she did not know she had. The result- both of the dream and in real life - is stunning and very gratifying.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This screenplay is outstanding. The story appeals to both children and adults and is poignant and powerful. The main characters are concisely presented in a very believable manner, including the dream characters who are essential to the plot. The pace is intense, appropriate to the serious subject matter. The grave threat of cancer and the powerful toll that treatment takes on the patient are starkly conveyed and sensitively addressed. There is no humor used, which is appropriate. The descriptive language is rich and beautiful. It will be interesting to see how this is handled by actors. The contrasting settings are compelling. The portrayal of a life and death challenge, addressed in an empowering manner, is central to the social value of the story. Outstanding.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Screenplay

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT
WESTON WOODS STUDIOS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - In the time-honored tradition of political commentary, the public and private lives of the 42 Presidents of the United States are celebrated with humor and flair.
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON
PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-12 ANIMATED
Topic - Family
Description - Set in the mythical world of burly Vikings and wild dragons, and based on the book by Cressida Cowell, the action comedy tells the story of Hiccup, a Viking teenager who doesn't exactly fit in with his tribe's longstanding tradition of heroic dragon slayers. Hiccup's world is turned upside down when a dragon challenges him and his fellow Vikings to see the world from an entirely different point of view.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - How to Train Your Dragon is an exciting and appealing new CGI animated feature film from Dreamworks. Though screened in an unfinished version, in 2D, with temporary scenes and music in place, once finished it will be another strong 3D title in theatrical release. Young Hiccup is a Viking and has always wanted to fight the dragons along with the grown-ups but has never been allowed. During a battle between the dragons the Vikings, Hiccup is able to snare a flying dragon, a fact he shares with his father, the town leader. But his father doesn't believe him and Hiccup is forced to search out the downed creature. When he finds him, instead of killing him, which has been Viking culture forever, he spares the young dragon, and a friendship is born. Hiccup hides his dragon friend, builds him a new tail so he can fly again, trains to be a warrior, and slowly begins showing the townspeople a way to befriend the dragons. When his father returns from sea, Hiccup is forced to prove he can slay a dragon. He refuses, and his dragon friend is exposed and captured. Hiccup's father uses the dragon to lead his army to the �nest' to rid the town of the dragons once and for all and it's up to Hiccup and his friends to stop the attack, save the young dragon and the Vikings, and take on the evil mother dragon. The CGI animation is spectacular, professional all the way. The film will probably appeal more to boys (dragons, fighting and such) than girls and is a bit scary for kids ages 5 and under. It is a film that uses violence and war to prove the point that violence and war is not needed, but there is plenty of action and adventure. Lots of explosions, fire, scary looking creatures and loud effects. Its appeal could extend to young male adults as well as it is truly a rollicking adventure.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 6-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: FeatureFilm

Buy Here (from PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT)

OVERDUE

OVERDUE
ERIC PADAN
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - Larry the Librarian has become horribly bored with his job. A chance encounter allows him to see the joy that can be found on the job. The solution - pranking the hapless students who populate the library. But, before Larry knows it, he is in way over his head.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Love it. Very well done. Good production values, funny storyline. Larry character is hilarious. This is a story everyone can relate to - including librarians. Nice job.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

SPY NEXT DOOR, THE

SPY NEXT DOOR, THE
LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Lionsgate and Relativity Media's family action comedy starts Jackie Chan as Bob Ho, and undercover CIA superspy who decides to give up his career in espionage to settle down with his next-door neighbor and girlfriend, Gillian (Amber Valletta). But Bob has one more mission to complete before Gillian agrees to marry him: winning over her three opinionated kids.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Spy Next Door refers to Bob Ho (Jackie Chan), a square but safe next-door neighbor and boyfriend of Jillian, a single mom with three kids. She is glad to have an honest and dependable guy in her life. The kids are dead set against the relationship because he's, well, just a big geek. When Mom needs to leave town suddenly, Bob offers to care for them, thinking it will give him a chance to make the kids like him. What no one knows is that Bob is actually an accomplished Chinese spy working with the CIA who has just worked his last job and has retired in the hopes of settling down with Jillian. The kids put Bob thru the ringer, but trouble really starts when the bad Russian guys come after Bob and the kids. Jillian breaks up with Bob when she realizes he has put her kids in danger. In the end, the kids come to his defense, the couple gets married and a new family is born.
What will appeal to a youth audience the most are the action scenes. The good guy spy, with help from the kids, fight the evil Russian baddies. There are lots of martial arts scenes but the action is almost cartoonish and we see no blood and guts. There is only scene where a bad guy gets a bloodied nose.
The heart of the film is delivered by Jackie Chan when he tells his girlfriend's teenage daughter that family is what you make � who you love and who loves you � not just the blood that runs in your veins. It's good advice and she grows to accept him as a potential step-father. It also helps her embrace her own family after feeling she didn't belong. Watching Bob trying to care for three unruly kids is truly humorous. The emotional arc of the kids letting down their defenses and allow a new man into their lives is something many kids can relate to, whether it's happened to them or they have seen friends experience similar things. The film is certainly derivative of other James Bond-for-kids type movies such as Spy Kids but doesn't really add anything original or memorable. The true appeal of this film is Jackie Chan, who gracefully moves between his two identities � the super square pen salesman who lives next door, and the super cool and capable Chinese spy working with the CIA. Plus, he's funny. That surprised us.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 6-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: FeatureFilm

Buy Here (from LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT)

EXTRAORDINARY MONDAY OF HERMAN BRUMBY, THE

EXTRAORDINARY MONDAY OF HERMAN BRUMBY, THE
ARI LEVINSON
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - Herman Brumby was not a man who enjoyed Mondays. But this Monday was different.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Rather peculiar but in an interesting and non-invasive fashion. I'm interested to hear the audience's reaction to this.
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

CHARLATAN

CHARLATAN
JAYE DAVIDSON
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - Tension arises between two brothers, Jake and Peter, when Peter finds out he's just being used by Jake to woo the girl behind the counter at the local ice cream.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This short film about two brothers reveals that even though someone may let you down it is best to forgive and move on. When young Peter wins his local spelling bee, his older brother Jake takes him out for ice cream. It soon becomes apparent that Jake never went to the competition and is simply using his brother to woo the girl who works at the ice cream shop. Through rich cinematography and simple direct scenes, we see the value of a relationship is more than a small fight. Good production values, particularly in a student film. The cinematography is well done, audio quality high, and the topic is something that kids can relate to. The title of the film is appropriate to the topic - Charlatan, one who deceives for his own gain.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

JAKE'S CORNER

JAKE'S CORNER
MONTEREY MEDIA
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - The story of an ex-football star, Johnny Dunn, who walked away from the game early in his career to live a relatively secluded life far from the spotlight in a small desert town he owns, called Jake's Corner. Johnny's quiet life is altered dramatically when he is forced to care for his young nephew, Spence.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - It's tough to raise a child in a town of unique individuals who have chosen to live separate from the rest of the world. But this is what Jake had to do when his nephew became orphaned in a car accident. At Jake's request, the townspeople welcome the boy, Spence, and keep the death of his parents a secret since he doesn't remember the accident much and thinks his parents are in a hospital healing. They become family as he tries to fit in and find himself, and as Jake comes to terms with the child in his life and in the death of his beloved sister. "Jake's Corner" takes on difficult issues and addresses them with sensitivity. Families will want to know that many scenes in the story take place in a bar at the uncle owns. Parents might find this story good for opening a discussion about death and what would happen their children if they died. Jake wasn't used to children, but he and the Spence developed a strong bond. The people in the town showed Spence that there are a lot of good people in the world, even if they don't look and act like everyone else.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This was a pretty good DVD because it had a good story and the characters played it out well. There weren't really any boring parts. I liked how you can tell the character's personalities before you even meet them by the way they looked. It would appeal to people who were going through a death of a family member. The characters treated each other well, getting along as best as they could-co-existing peacefully. I didn't really like the stereotypical bad teen scene. The music had a nice country feel. The cinematography was pretty good, I liked the side things like the bear. I liked the symbolism of the bear and the bass.
Runtime: 97 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 10-15
Suggested Retail Price: $ 26.95
Media: DVD ISBN # 978-1-56994-349-6

Buy Here (from MONTEREY MEDIA)

MAGISTICAL, THE

MAGISTICAL, THE
OUT OF OUR MINDS ANIMATION STUDIOS
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - An evil draken, The Magistical, a misused spell, an eccentric emperor, a corpulent king, a war, a mess of midgeons, a friend in need and one small boy who must believe he can save them all.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This beautifully animated feature weaves a tale about learning to believe in yourself and expresses themes of friendship and love. The animation quality is simply outstanding and beautiful. The storyline takes a while to take off, then wanders a bit but pulls it together in the end. I watched this with an 8-year-old who wiggled around for the first 15 to 20 minutes but after that, stayed with it, even explaining to me at times what was going on.
Runtime: 99 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

DON'T UNPLUG THE ARTS

DON'T UNPLUG THE ARTS
DIANA LAMPIASI
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, HIGH SCHOOL, DOCUMENTARY
Topic - Family
Description - What would your life be like with music, art, dance, theater? This short documentary talks with industry insiders about the importance of the arts in public school education and in lives of children today.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Clear coverage of an important topic. Audio levels waver a bit. Some interviews are poorly lit. But, as a student production, the content makes up for the inconsistent quality.
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

GOLDEN TREE, THE

GOLDEN TREE, THE
GILLIAN FISHER
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, ELEMENTARY
Topic - Family
Description - An impoverished boy finds a very special tree in the woods that bears $100 coins just in time to help his family from being evicted. A touching story which reminds us to take only what we NEED. Written and directed by nine-year old Emma Kenney.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

PUPS OF LIBERTY

PUPS OF LIBERTY
PICNIC PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - The story of the Boston Tea Party told with cats and dogs.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is a clever way to introduce young people to the concept behind the Revolutionary War. Using animated cats and dogs as the characters; the cats represent the British and the dogs, the colonists. It starts out with the cat king ruling every thing. We are introduced to a little dog girl and a dad dog. She delivers the mail. One day the cat king comes and tells the dogs that he is putting a tax onto the mail. The dogs object to this and begin a protest, saying: "No laws without paws." We see how the dogs gather to develop a plan to resist the efforts of taxation without representation. It ends with someone saying "this was the beginning of the Americanine Revolution." Excellent production. Great animation, good audio, great concept and script. Well paced. Very appropriate for target age.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - An 8-year-old who watched it was quite riveted. "It's a very good story. I really liked. It." He talked about the animation style, watching the dogs deal with the cats and asked if this is how the American Revolution really started.
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 6-10
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LEARNING TO FLY

LEARNING TO FLY
ARI LEVINSON
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - A fantasy film in the spirit of "The Red Balloon", our young protagonist, Elizabeth, finds herself in pursuit of a butterfly and of the dream of human flight. We see the world as Elizabeth imagines it, the world of a child where the inconsequential takes on supernatural significance.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Enthralling. A girl on the beach longs to be able to fly. While chasing birds and one mysterious butterfly that she wants to draw in her sketch book, her imagination takes flight. With the help of her imagination and high quality CGI, the girl is transported to the skies, with a giant pair of butterfly wings. After her day dream, the girl is disappointed, until she sees a Han glider and it is obvious it will take no time at all for her dream to become reality. The visual production is high quality and the CGI of the girl flying with giant butterfly wings is great to watch. There is no dialogue, the music is compelling and fits the tone of the scenes very well.
Runtime: 12 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LETTERS TO LINCOLN

LETTERS TO LINCOLN
B-TV LORA BATCHELOR MIDDLE SCHOOL
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL
Topic - Family
Description - Based on a true story about a little girl who wrote to Abraham Lincoln while he was running for President telling him that he would look happier and friendlier if he would grow whiskers.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Having never heard of this story before, it captured my attention due to its subject matter. It has a little bit of trouble with the audio at one part, but not enough to discount it. Overall, it's interesting and relevant to an elementary school child.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LIFTER UPPER, THE

LIFTER UPPER, THE
MICAH CHAMBERS-GOLDBERG
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Olive is depressed due to an absurd series of family tragedies. Jack, a concerned neighbor, calls a Professional Lifter Upper of Spirits to remedy the situation who finds Olive to be his toughest case yet.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very nicely done. It deals with trying to bring somebody out of a depression and shows how difficult the task can be. However, we learn that by appealing directly to what touches them on a deeper level we can make some improvement. The film is executed in a very heartwarming manner even though it takes on very real situations and brings to light real life events that occur in ourselves and others. Every aspect of filmmaking is explored here and attention is paid to every frame of the film, like a painting. Nothing is left hanging or unresolved and it completely holds your interest throughout. I think children would appreciate the balance between the dark and light aspects of this film. Additionally, the physical comedy that the Lifter Upper performs while trying to cheer up Olive is fun, exciting and cute. The opening sequence that shows how Olive loved going up and was very optimistic until her family and loved ones started to die is very well done. Although it is a bit overly dramatic, it's done in animation and we see no blood or gore. The story structure and production value are flawless and, while it is a somewhat dark story, it has so much color and quirk that it seems to evoke a certain amount of humor. One should be sensitive to their audience before screening this as someone who has recently suffered a loss may not find it quite so entertaining and may be offended.
Runtime: 11 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

WHO'S WAGGING WHO

WHO'S WAGGING WHO
TALL GIRL FILMS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - When Maggie seeks companionship from a local dog rescue, she doesn't know what she is getting into. Rudy, a terrier mix catches Maggie's eye and soon becomes her guy. They are inseparable. All is great until her new client, Tim shows up. When Tim takes a romantic interest in Maggie, Rudy pulls out all the stops and does everything in his power to prevent Maggie from getting hurt again by a two-legged competitor. Tim soon learns that the way to Maggie's heart is through her four-legged companion and the negotiation begins.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cute story, cute dog. Sweet romantic comedy with good acting and screenplay. We can hear the dog's thoughts through the voice of the narrator and can experience his jealousy and cleverness. And yet, the romance manages to develop. If you are a dog lover, you'll absolutely love this. Even if you are not, this puppy is so appealing, it will steal your heart.
Runtime: 17 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

BONGA BONGAS, TV DINNER, THE

BONGA BONGAS, TV DINNER, THE
THE BONGA BONGA FILM COMPANY
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Bonga Bonga Island is a lush tropical paradise on a planet far away. The Bonga Bongas live in harmony with their environment. Objects from the outside world wash up and they find plenty of unsuitable and comical uses for them.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cute, colorful, nicely animated. It does question the usefulness of a television set.
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

DAY MY PARENTS BECAME COOL, THE

DAY MY PARENTS BECAME COOL, THE
EKE PICTURES LLL
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - When the 1000-year comet crosses the sky, a brave new world is created, where every adult on the planet adopts every current trend in teen fashion, style and body image.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is a fun piece about how, as times change, style choices become more extreme and the younger generation steps up their game so that their fashion choices stand out. In this film, the parents dress like the young people and the young people try to get them to stop which is pretty amusing. Good set and costume design. Good acting, very believable. While it doesn't have any deep meaning, it's an interesting idea that shows how every planetary shift bridges the gaps between older people and younger people. Kids would get a kick out of seeing the parent figures dress like teenagers. This film bears some resemblances to Twilight, from the school to the background music. Some may object to the scene at the beginning with the Mom bending over and her thong sticks out at the top of her jeans and we see the words "tramp stamp" tattooed on her back. Also, the girl asks her Dad why his "ass" is sticking out of his pants. Other than that, pretty tame.
Runtime: 16 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

RIDE OF THE MERGANSERS

RIDE OF THE MERGANSERS
STEVE FURMAN
Series: INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - The Hooded Merganser is a rare and reclusive duck that nests high in the trees. Just 24 hours after hatching, the tiny ducklings must make the perilous leap to the ground below to begin life in the wild.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Loved it. Great images, great background music. Makes you laugh.
Runtime: 11 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

FREE PARKING

FREE PARKING
BIG BLUE NOODLE PRODUCTIONS
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, HIGH SCHOOL
Topic - Family
Description - When three siblings have abused their electronic limit, they're forced by their mom to seek other avenues.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - When three kids are given $5 from one of their mothers, to go out a play instead of watching TV, they discover how magical the real world can be. Upon finding a glittery monopoly game, they find the "free parking" money magical has turned into real cash. Through encounters with a homeless woman, and a ruined shopping spree, these kids learn the value of helping those in need, and how the world can seem brighter when you are not greedy. What would enthrall kids in this film about greed, is the fact that when all the monopoly turns into real money the kids go on a crazy shopping spree for candy and toys but they also learn a valuable lesson about sharing and greed. The story line is easy to follow and a common one that is not address enough, that kids will have more fun playing outside than if they sit inside and watch TV or play videogames. Good background music, pretty good production levels (particularly for a high school production), good scripting.
Runtime: 12 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

HEY BABY
BIG BLUE NOODLE PRODUCTIONS
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, HIGH SCHOOL
Topic - Family
Description - Charming shlump Gordy Burtis yearns to return home after a hard day of work.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Gordy Burtis is a man looking forward to the end of his day. The character is convincing, and silly. Throughout his day Gordy makes numerous phone calls to someone he calls Baby. After buying flowers and renting a movie, he skips home where we find out that Gordy's baby --- is a DOG. A dog with whom he hugs, lets the dog kiss him and romp outside. This high school production is compelling, though some production qualities vary such as lighting.
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

BROKEN HILL

BROKEN HILL
AUDIENCE ALLIANCE MPS
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Tommy dreams of being accepted into the famous Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Unfortunately, a good band is hard to find in the middle of the Australian outback, until a strange incident leads him to a group of talented prison inmates. Starring Timothy Hutton and Alexa Vega.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Well crafted story with a different twist. Typical story boy enamored with girl, misbehaves, gets community service. The twist is, he wants to compose music and is very good at it. He and the girl decide to go to the state pen and create a choir with the convict population. The convicts are scary characters; there are no white collar convicts here. Good lessons about taking responsibility. The scene of the "imagined" orchestra in the outback captures you and lets you know immediately that the boy has other aspirations besides cruising through school and getting by. Exceptional production value. Good dialogue, sequence, pace. Highly recommended.
Runtime: 105 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 10-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

SWITCH, THE

SWITCH, THE
SANTA FE SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS & SCIENCES MOVING IMAGES PROGRAM
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL
Topic - Family
Description - A mystery at the train station involving a bomb, a secret agent and a cast of funny characters. Look-a-like suitcases provide the vehicle for a confusing mystery.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A campy 007-ish story, created by middle school students, is fun, a little silly and a well constructed storyline. Good ending. Production values are a bit weak with poor lighting and audio problems with the wind.
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

SANDSTORM

SANDSTORM
SANTA FE SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS & SCIENCES MOVING IMAGES PROGRAM
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL
Topic - Family
Description - Music video set to the song "Sandstorm" - a team of magical heroes try to get a rubber ducky.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This music video, produced by middle school students holds your interest. Makes use of lots of special effects such as colorizing, slow and fast motion. The electronic music is lively, upbeat and slightly frenetic. There is an underlying story about the umbrella group stealing a girl's rubber ducky and her attempts to get it back. Throughout the movie, we keep seeing the ducky pop up. Nicely done.
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

ONE LITTLE STEP

ONE LITTLE STEP
NICHOLAS ECONOMIDES
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - A depressed mime must free himself of his fear of the unknown in order to win the heart of a clown.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This black and white silent film is well produced with good camera work and good acting. It has a beginning, middle and end and manages to tell a story within its 7 minute timeframe. Very classical.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

DADTASTIC
JIMMY MONACK
Series: SCREENPLAY FOR AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - When three bumbling single dads attempt to connect with their kids by becoming real-life superheroes, real-life criminals decided to get in the way.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Screenplay

SCOOBY-DOO!: FIRST FRIGHTS (NINTENDO DS)

SCOOBY-DOO!: FIRST FRIGHTS (NINTENDO DS)
WARNER BROS INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Series: VIDEOGAME, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Explore spooky environments as Scooby, Shaggy or any of the super-cool teen Mystery, Inc. team. The game also features co-op play allowing two members of Mystery, Inc. to work together.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Entertaining and a lot of fun. It stimulates the mind and encourages kids to solve problems. You have to solve mysteries by working together as a team and figuring out clues. Each team member has special attributes (like Scooby can go through small holes and Shaggy can get things with his yoyo) that help them move through the courses and solve the mysteries. The characters are recognizable from the TV show and the music is pretty good. The words are easy to read and the narration and directions are clear. Some of the skeletons and other "bad guys" might scare younger viewers. There are different courses but not different levels of difficulty. Kids are praised for correct answers and given other chances when they are wrong. The main characters are never killed, even in battles. It does contain some cartoon-type violence but no blood and guts. If you exit out during the game you need to start the level over the next time you play but you don't have to go all the way back to the beginning. User can't control the pace of the material and it only has one level of difficulty. The content is geared for a younger crowd who enjoys Scooby Doo (8-10), yet the game is a bit difficult for users of that age. Users can review past materials but you cannot skip ahead nor can you make the game easier or harder. The mysteries are generally easy to solve; it is finding the clues that is difficult.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids enjoyed it. "I think it is a good game but the problem was that there weren't enough levels to play in." "It is really easy. The difficult part was remembering what to press and when." "The characters stop the other people from doing other things they want to do by dressing up like monsters and scaring the other ones. Of course, there are bad guys." "We loved the sound but the images were kind of fuzzy and you couldn't see them all that well. But, overall, I'd say, pretty good and I would play it again." "It was easy for experienced people but the instructions were written very tiny on the screen so you pretty much had to figure it out on your own." "It was a short game. It only took me an hour to get through half of it." "In five minutes, I was great at the game. (11-year-old) " Favorite part: Scooby Doo! Probably most suited for 8 to 12-year-olds though kids who like Scooby Doo will enjoy this at 6 or 7. Some kids, who are scared by Scooby Doo at a younger age, will most likely not like this game until they are older.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Videogame

EPLANET: RAINFOREST QUEST
FINK PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Join Timo and Dina as they explore Earth's rainforests. Together they'll discover the science behind the scenery; why jungles are so important and what people are doing to protect and preserve them.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Great video of the rainforest areas. Excellent clips of different topics and regions. Brief but full of information. Nice music, good voice overs. Computer animated hosts were a bit corny. Many other important science concepts are covered as well such as conservation and ecology. Teaches about different plants and animals found in the rainforests. Children learn about the four layers in the rainforest, how animals and plants have adapted to their particular habitats and alerts them to the fact that rainforests are endangered. It illustrates how deforestation is injuring our planet and looks at how groups are attempting to preserve areas of land and water. It also teaches about the medicinal properties of the trees and plants of the rainforests and presents the challenge that people may have to make in order to heal and preserve our planet. Encourages viewers to learn more about the rainforest and think about how we are caring for the earth. Visually appealing. Wonderful cinematography. Offers a huge dose of facts in an interesting format that should hold a child's attention.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Enjoyed it. "I liked the animals and plants. We got to see lots of cool places." The maps and animals drew their interest. "They showed very colorful forests and interesting animals." "The sounds let you know what a real rainforest would sound like. That was neat." Kids didn't like the computerized hosts. "Those computer graphics people were annoying." "I would show it to friends who like science." "We enjoyed this and thought it has All-Star qualities. The only thing we didn't like were the animated hosts."
Runtime: 75 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-14
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

SCRIBBLENAUTS (NINTENDO DS)

SCRIBBLENAUTS (NINTENDO DS)
WARNER BROS INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Series: VIDEOGAME, AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Scribblenauts for Nintendo DS is a videogame where players use their imagination. Players jot down the word for any object that comes to mind in order to help their character Maxwell solve a series of puzzles. Write anything; solve everything!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very entertaining. The main character locates the little stars and has to figure out how to get to them by using tools and overcoming obstacles. You feel good for getting through the obstacles and finding the stars. This game definitely encourages planning and strategy and using tools on hand. The levels get more difficult and challenging. The child loses information from the level they are on, but can start the level again when they restart without having to repeat the lower levels. Provides hours of entertainment that is engaging, creative and wholesome. Good value. This is a terrific problem solving game. Really encourages "out of the box" thinking. Cause and effect is easily and readily seen. Encourages creative use of everyday items. Offers pracr5tice in spelling in a fun way. It is not only inventive but is highly entertaining, with a bit of learning thrown in. It is actually very clever and requires the player to not only figure out how to get out of situations or solve puzzles but also requires them to be creative and to be able to spell words. If a player spells something wrong, then they are shown several options, so they actually learn spelling along with the normal game play and problem solving. Like most games for the 10-14 age group, the player can choose more violent methods of solving problems such as using a gun to stop an animal from attacking you, although the animal poofs away and there are bonus points given for selecting non-violent methods. Graphics are pretty standard for current DS games although what is unique is that you can write almost any word down and that object will appear on the screen.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Enjoyed it. It is a very fun game where you get to draw things that come to life. It's really cool. Awesome!" "I can control the game with my clicks and it is very easy to get started. "You just type things and they come to life. Love that." "Maxwell, the main guy who you are, during missions sometimes helps save cats and stuff like that." "I would definitely play this again."

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Videogame

EL SALON MEXICO

EL SALON MEXICO
PAUL GLICKMAN
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATED
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - A fantasy, set in Mexico in the 1800's and woven into the musical composition by Aaron Copland. It is the story of a very young campesino who, along with his burro and rooster, sneaks out of the house one night to see a fiesta for the very first time.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Wonderful animation. Lovely story, beautiful rich colors. This non-narrative piece tells a story with background music by Aaron Copland. The characters are quite fanciful as is the action. If Diego Rivera had made animation, this is what it would look like. Absolutely fun and lovely.
Runtime: 13 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

WE ARE ALL HERE

WE ARE ALL HERE
YONGHWA CHOI
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE, ANIMATION
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - This is a story about earth. All life on the earth dies someday. The earth is also temporary. Nevertheless, we use up in earth's storehouse. This film presents these issues cheerfully and freely to increase visual interest.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Great visuals, very colorful and imaginative. Clear, upbeat music. Interesting characters. If I didn't know the film was about global warming, I'm not sure I would get it from the film, but I still like it. Non-narrative.
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

BLUE SKIES OVER GREY GRASS

BLUE SKIES OVER GREY GRASS
BEN RIDDELL
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Charlie is an average kid living on an average estate. When boredom and frustration get the better of him, he makes a decision that forces him to confront the cycle of life that surrounds him. College student production from the U.K.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The film opens with shots of an average English neighborhood, with dismal grey skies and two boys named Charlie and Jamie. Charlie is bored and in a desperate attempt to have fun he steals a paperboy's bike. Upon returning home and finding his dad has brought him his very own bicycle, Charlie realizes what he must do. The film has an interesting time lapse scene of Charlie playing in a park, and when he gives his own bike back to the paperboy, it is a lesson that every kid can benefit from and offers good talking points about stealing and honesty. It definitely brings up the question about what to do if you were in a similar situation. Although the boy Charlie steals a bike out of boredom, he realizes the damage it causes and becomes a good influence by giving his bike to the boy who lost his. The British accents may be difficult for kids in the U.S. to understand at first, but it doesn't take long to get over that.
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

GREAT RACE, THE

GREAT RACE, THE
MARTIN HUMPHREYS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - A genuine sprint race over 50 meters between a Marty and his one eyed cat, Midge. No one has ever seen a cat that races a human but Midge races Marty all the time and is determined to win. The film played in the shorts corner of the Cannes Film Festival and became the biggest news story in the UK, in all the papers and TV coverage. The one-minute clip on the BBC had 44 thousand hits in two weeks and Midge has become the most famous cat in the UK.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very sweet and endearing. Who would think that a cat would do this: Certainly none that I know! But, Midge stays with Marty the entire race and surges ahead of him. The scenes of her rolling in the sunlight at the end shows how much she revels in her success.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

DRESSING UP

DRESSING UP
HUGH SCHULZE
Series: SCREENPLAY FOR AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Two pairs of sisters, two adults and two younger pre-teen girls, become involved in a design and fashion competition that will take them from Detroit to New York City where they encounter personal challenges and test to their relationships.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Screenplay

NEVAEH CAN'T WAIT

NEVAEH CAN'T WAIT
LESLIE BRADFORD
Series: SCREENPLAY FOR AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - An animated short film explains the emotional affects of childhood terminal illness to peers. The toughest part of Shawn's return is not the long journey, it's the alienation of his friends.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This screenplay takes on difficult issues and addresses them sensitively. It takes a child from another world and addresses the fact that this child finds out that he is going to die before old age. It shows the adjustment of children around the child and the children have a difficult time being around him. It's a find story that addresses a difficult topic but almost seems a bit forced at points and tells rather than shows emotion - taking away from it's potential impact.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Screenplay

MYTHATANIA

MYTHATANIA
LONG WAY HOME PRODUCTIONS
Series: SCREENPLAY FOR AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Scottish siblings are swallowed by Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, and brought to the land of Mythatania, where all creatures heard of in myth and folklore live.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - An appealing, creative fantasy that challenges viewers to accept others on their own merits and to rely on friendship to solve problems. It models compassion and respect within a delightfully fast-moving adventure, all wrapped in wonderful humor. Two Scottish children find themselves at the center of the timeless battle between good and evil in a magical kingdom peopled by a variety of mythical creatures (who all have funny, engaging personalities) in a fast-paced adventure that has lots of action and drama, where the power of friendship and serving others saves the day. It's a lot of fun!

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: Screenplay

MADAGASCAR - ESCAPE 2 AFRICA

MADAGASCAR - ESCAPE 2 AFRICA
DREAMWORKS - LA
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 8-12, ANIM
Topic - Family
Description - Your favorite castaways are back � still together and still lost! One of the top movies of the year, DreamWorks Animation's MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA is "even better than the first!" (Mark Hyman, FOX-TV). You'll laugh out loud as this outrageous comedy takes you on an African adventure like no other.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Alex is a baby lion who loves to sing, dance, be happy. Caught off the reserve in Africa, to the anguish of the lion King, his father, Alex awakes to an unlikely group of comrades in the New York Central Park Zoo. As they grow up, so does their song and dance friendship. Alex becomes King of the Zoo, adored by all. Yet they escape to their roots, Africa in a rickety plane piloted by penguins. This madcap group of friends discover identity, love, challenge. The movie, guided by great animation, funny characterization, sensitive dialogue, finds Alex reunited with his family only to be banished after his right of passage, sabotaged by a jealous lion, fails. Throughout, Alex maintains his independence, his love of what he knows - dance, song and joyfulness. These contagious qualities win the ultimate test and Alex, leading his friends, save the animal kingdom from outside dangers. Happily, Alex teaches his father, the King Lion, to dance. This is a terrific movie for kids and parents, although parental caution, and PG rating is deserved specifically when an older grandparent figure, female, though very irritating and mean, is constantly being pummeled by everyone. This element is not a positive message and those scenes detract from the lesson of family being true to one's identity-and parental support of their child's abilities. Stars Chris Rock and Ben Stiller.
Runtime: 89 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.99
Media: DVD
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Ages 10-18 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The Ages 10-18 category has 1497 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles

Below are the 50 most recently endorsed (see more by clicking the button at the bottom)

Below are the 50 most recently endorsed
(see more by clicking the button at the bottom)