The story follows Leo da Vinci and his friends who are determined to save their town when a "dragon" threatens to burn down and take over Florence, Italy.
I like how the short film builds on real people and things, but makes them unique and entertaining for kids. However, at some points, the dialogue doesn't feel very natural. The film is completely animated. The animation is exceptional and realistic looking. It's not Disney quality, but it still looks very clean and neat. Some of the costumes suit the storyline, although Lisa's outfit does not since she wears pants and, during the time period that it takes place in (1500s; Italy), women did not wear pants. The backgrounds look as I imagine Italy looked during the Renaissance era. The music stands out as it helps enhance the suspense of the storyline. Some of the characters are loosely based on real people such as Leo da Vinci (Danial Llaca) and Bianca de' Medici (Christina Jopling). The script feels a bit bland as we don't see much character development in this episode. There are other episodes, however, and perhaps the characters develop more in those. Anna Stinfale, character designer and animation advisors stands out to me. I think she made the characters look like they all belong, all while being unique. My favorite part is the ending because it ends light heartedly and gives enough closure for this episode, while making more episodes a possibility.
This film's message is that if there is a will, there is a way, and that if you put your mind to it, any problem can be solved. You should be aware that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. Leo and his friends fly on gliders and try to fight bad guys who have fire. Young kids may try to replicate Leo and make gliders, which is not safe.
I give Leo da Vinci 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Reviewed by Katherine S. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
The story follows Leo da Vinci and his friends who are determined to save their town when a "dragon" threatens to burn down and take over Florence, Italy.
I like how the short film builds on real people and things, but makes them unique and entertaining for kids. However, at some points, the dialogue doesn't feel very natural. The film is completely animated. The animation is exceptional and realistic looking. It's not Disney quality, but it still looks very clean and neat. Some of the costumes suit the storyline, although Lisa's outfit does not since she wears pants and, during the time period that it takes place in (1500s; Italy), women did not wear pants. The backgrounds look as I imagine Italy looked during the Renaissance era. The music stands out as it helps enhance the suspense of the storyline. Some of the characters are loosely based on real people such as Leo da Vinci (Danial Llaca) and Bianca de' Medici (Christina Jopling). The script feels a bit bland as we don't see much character development in this episode. There are other episodes, however, and perhaps the characters develop more in those. Anna Stinfale, character designer and animation advisors stands out to me. I think she made the characters look like they all belong, all while being unique. My favorite part is the ending because it ends light heartedly and gives enough closure for this episode, while making more episodes a possibility.
This film's message is that if there is a will, there is a way, and that if you put your mind to it, any problem can be solved. You should be aware that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. Leo and his friends fly on gliders and try to fight bad guys who have fire. Young kids may try to replicate Leo and make gliders, which is not safe.
I give Leo da Vinci 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Reviewed by Katherine S. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
