Ages 12-18 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

This title has online video!

By Daniel S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm

This title has online video!

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

This title has online video!

By Victoria L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm

Dreams Come True: Ginji Series, Episode 1 gets 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Anyone who loves animation will appreciate this. By Kira O. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love Dreams Come True: Ginji Series. It is an animated show that is pretty funny because they have adventures delivering packages. Ginji is also very stubborn.

The story follows Ginji (Katie Zieff) arriving in Cade City to fulfill her dream of becoming a courier, and when a thief steals her package, Ginji's droid backpack helps her. The film is from Cyprus, but the dialogue is all in English.

The animation is very outstanding! Kudos to Slava Ushakov, the creator. This really is some of the best animation I have seen in some time. It is very unique and beautifully created - very vintage style with a completely wildly futuristic background of Cade City. All of the characters are interestingly formed, relating to animal type shapes sort of and each one is quite different. I love how her backpack is anthropomorphic - and very cute. I like the relationship between Ginji and her backpack, UB7 (Erik Zieff). He always tries to help, but Ginji will not listen and she winds up getting into trouble. Ginji and UB7 argue quite frequently, but UB7 tries to help her and eventually Ginji has to save him. Even though they argue a lot, Ginji and Ub7 show their friendship and devotion by saving one another. They also make a new ally in Verona, (Katie Zieff), who goes from foe to friend and leads them on a path to new adventures.

The film reminds us that sometimes you need to listen to others because your stubbornness can get you into trouble or prevent you from doing important things.

Dreams Come True: Ginji Series, Episode 1 gets 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Anyone who loves animation will appreciate this. By Kira O. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 24 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Zoo (Chidiakhana) 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Zoo (Chidiakhana) is an engaging, well-written and beautifully-shot film that stole my heart and will certainly steal those of teen viewers around the world.

The story follows a young boy, Sooraj, struggling to adapt to his new school in a Mumbai slum, facing bullying from students and teachers. Plus, he soon finds out that he won't be able to practice his beloved sport of soccer on the school grounds because the government is reclaiming the land. When he joins hands with a local gangster, Sooraj sees his future could change.

This film has great production quality, camera work, and script. I love how Sooraj's daily life is portrayed in the film, especially his interactions with his mother. I like how everything unfolds clearly in the first hour to set up for the climax of the film. The cinematography is superb. There are lots of tracking shots in the high-adrenaline sports scenes, and the lighting is played with to give an appropriate mood. The sets suit the storyline. Suraj's home in the Mumbai chawls is true-to-life, as is his government school. Everything from the narrow lanes to the clamor in the slums is perfectly reproduced. The background music is a mix of traditional Indian rhythms and more modern Indian music, and the tempo and rhythm of the background track adjusts to the pace of the scenes. The scenes where Sooraj runs from his bullies are especially well-matched with their background tracks. Sooraj sees some people as animals (an interesting detail I wish was expanded upon a bit more in the story). Most of the VFX are believable but I am not a big fan of the detailing of the monkey-head given to school bully Babu; it seems fake. I love the performance by Ritvik Sahore - he shines as brightly as his name, Sooraj (meaning sun). I especially love the depth of his emotions, his crisp and powerful dialogue delivery, and his clear passion for the role. Another Indian star, Avneet Kaur, who plays Mili, Sooraj's best friend (and perhaps love interest), is compelling as well. She pulls off the role of a simple, if slightly cheeky, schoolgirl very well. Prashant, Sooraj's gangster friend, is my personal favorite character, simply for how the role is played by actor Prashant Narayanan. Viewers go from suspecting his motives to downright disliking him to realizing his true nature as a kind, helpful, Robin Hood-like figure.

The appearance of some prominent Bollywood actors like Ravi Kishan and Govind Namdev is a pleasant surprise, too. Director Manish Tiwary is a virtuoso in his direction of this film. His personal background as Bihari has clearly influenced the portrayal of Sooraj and, his time in Mumbai, shows through his portrayal of the city. His direction makes every single character's performances riveting. My favorite part of the film is the equation between Sooraj and Prashant, his Mumbai gangster friend; it's a wholesome element that lightens some heavy parts of the film. I also like Sooraj's backstory, delivered in comic strip-style, though it does stereotype Bihari people a bit.

The film promotes respect, kindness, resourcefulness, and resilience as keys to success. Be forewarned that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. Kids run through slums, fight with each other, and one is forced to wield a weapon.

I give The Zoo (Chidiakhana) 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm

I give Under The Same Sky 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Under The Same Sky is a great reminder of the world that our children experienced during the COVID 19 pandemic.

The story follows two young girls, Andrea (age 4) and Marina (age 6) who become friends during the pandemic while playing on the rooftops of their respective houses.. They fly paper airplanes to each other with pictures on them and should across the space between the buildings to share information. Suddenly, Marina's parents spare and she moves away without notice. Andrea is puzzled and heartsick until she finds a remnant of their friendship.

Beautiful concept, simply made. Very nice camera work and audio. Most of this is non-narrative with minimal language in Spanish, and English subtitles. The two little girls are absolutely adorable. Their movements are so natural and you can feel the connection between them. I love that this takes a look back at how our young ones experienced the pandemic as it will always affect their lives.

The film's message is about friendship, even in the most challenging situations.

I give Under The Same Sky 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

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

I give Camille 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I like the stylized animation of Camille and the message, which is a good reminder to not give too much.

The storyline follows Camille, who is alone at school and excluded from the other children on the playground. She makes cupcakes in an attempt to make friends, but she endangers herself in the escalating attempts to be accepted.

Social isolation at school is a real issue and I admire this little girl making an attempt to step forward to be accepted. However, she goes over the top in her quest to have others like her to the point that she endangers herself and her health. The animation is very good and the kids' faces are very expressive. Background music begins rather sad and you can emphasize with Camille's sense of isolation; it gets happier when she is baking and interacting with her cat. As the film progresses we see her getting tired, overwhelmed and then frightened. The music really moves the story forward - it is critical to the film since there is no dialogue. However, Camille's face is very expressive so you can feel the emotion of Camille as well as the others. My favorite scene is when Camille comes home from school and is greeted by her cat, who is likely her best friend.

The film's message is about fitting in at school, or elsewhere. Showing how Camille is taken advantage of by the other children in her search for friendship is a reminder to not over extending yourself.

I give Camille 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 12 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give BizKidz 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Absolutely intriguing! BizKidz captivates with its inventive concept, promising a hilarious yet thought-provoking exploration of our fascination with success and privilege. With a talented young cast, this mockumentary is poised to be a must-watch for its clever humor and social commentary.

This tongue-in-cheek mockumentary follows a quirky team's quest to discover the next significant invention at the BizKidz Challenge, leading to uproarious antics and a humorous take on our obsession with success.

I recommend BizKidz for a youth and family film festival. Its focus on young entrepreneurs and their journey to pursue innovative ideas makes it entertaining and inspiring for young audiences and their families. The film's creativity, determination, and teamwork themes align well with the festival's target demographic. I appreciate the comedic approach to satirizing our culture's fascination with success and innovation. It offers a humorous and thought-provoking commentary on these themes. I love how each kid has a different business idea, which adds a unique and engaging dimension to the storyline. The cinematography and camera work uses a dynamic range of angles and a documentary style that lends the film a vlog-like, intimate feel. However, there are scenes where the camera work becomes somewhat busy, which lead to visual distraction. The characters wear typical attire for young people, which align perfectly with the film's style. The locations, specifically the business fair and the stage, suit the storyline. The film relies on dialogue and natural audio to convey the story so there is minimal background music or sound effects.

Some young actors portray characters participating at a kids' business fair while others represent potential entrepreneurs. George Andrew Moore as "Bradley," Kylie Kwon as "Amy," Finely Malone as "Cindy" and Malia Keita as "Eek" are key characters. Their character development revolves around them as young entrepreneurs experiencing the BizKidz Challenge, offering a glimpse into their personal growth, insights, and evolving perspectives as they engage with the competition.

The behind-the-scenes contributors play that shape the film's creative vision and execution include director Canedy Knowles and writers Don Stallings and Canedy Knowles, who play an essential role in coordinating and managing the filmmaking process. My favorite part of the film was witnessing all the fair attendees' interviews about their innovative ideas and professional attitudes. This segment provides a fascinating glimpse into the young entrepreneurs' creative minds and dedication to their visions.

The film's message promotes the idea of young entrepreneurs' creative and innovative potential, highlighting the importance of nurturing their ideas and fostering a supportive environment for the next generation of business leaders.

I give BizKidz 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 21 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give After The Endling 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Benjamin P., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really like After The Endling! It's a wordless fable with pretty remarkable, shadow-puppet like animation.

A baby snail is left in a state of shock when both of his parents are taken from him by a formidable predator.

The story line is about a baby snail, the Hawaiian pupu kani oe named George, who is left in a state of shock when both of his parents are taken from him by a formidable predator. Presented in shadow puppet style, we watch George struggle to survive invasive threats to his own life. In Hawai'i, these snails have maintained a harmonious relationship with their environment, until invasive predators arrive. Upon his parents' death, George becomes an endling, the very last of his species.

Great short! I love the animation, the story, and its message about the environment. This story is not particularly complex, but it's certainly relevant to our planet today, with issues of extinction and sustainability and is presented in an entertaining animation that definitely kept my attention. The animation is really, really cool; the 2-D figures that look like cut out pieces of paper traversing a flat, but colorful world are oozing with charm. The backgrounds add an enormous amount of atmosphere to the story. The background Hawaiian music complements the story well, including a haunting piece after a tragic event that really stands out. My favorite scene is the one where George is out on his own after the death of his parents.

I give After The Endling 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Benjamin P., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give GRWM - Get Ready With Me 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. However, I would be careful about showing this at a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival because some of these topics are pretty harsh. By Victoria L., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoy GRWM - Get Ready With Me. It has great special effects, use of prosthetics, and an amazing plot twist at the end.

The storyline follows a girl who is an influencer as she begins to put too much online for her fans and faces the consequences of it later.

I really enjoy how, in between what seems to be a perfect life online streaming and posting YouTube videos, we see snippets of Samuelle's therapy sessions and messages to her mom, showing that, just because someone looks perfect online doesn't mean their home life is perfect.

I really like the shots of Samuelle filming her YouTube videos and how, when she has extra pieces of information, she leans in from a different angle. It's almost as if she is breaking the fourth wall even though she has been talking to her audience the entire time. The costume changes when Samuelle is filming her YouTube videos to when she is in her therapy sessions or when she is talking to her mom. The outfit changes shift the mood because, when she films, she wears more vibrant clothes and wears her hair down or put up. When she is in therapy or talking to her mom she wears a beanie to cover all her hair and a hoodie with the hood up. It's almost like she is trying to hide herself when she isn't on camera. There are sound effects throughout the film that shift the mood of the scene. There are times in between segments when she is changing from her YouTube personality to her personal life and the sound effects there change the mood from upbeat and happy to worrisome and fearful. At one point Samuelle, begins to see some odd green scales appearing on her neck. They slowly climb down her neck and closer to her face before the film ends. This is very well done; it does appear that she is slowly becoming a green monster with scales.

Samuelle Lepage (Malie Aubin-Juteau) is the main character in this film. The way she is portrayed shows what it's like to be a teenager like her today -- going to therapy and arguing with her mom, as well as being an internet personality, is what makes her such an interesting character. �tienne Jacques is the writer, producer, and director but his writing is what impresses me the most. There is a scene that shows two young men being outed on social media. Being able to not only talk about such hard topics but portray them well and without judgment is what makes his writing stand out. My favorite thing about this film is how, throughout the film, you see Samuelle's character change from being excited about going Australia to her trip being postponed after an incident that happened at a party she threw and her ending up in therapy.

The film's message is about how what you put onto the internet will stay there forever so be careful of what you post. Be forewarned that it talks about kids doing risky things, there is a little bit of blood but nothing too gory, and a weapon is shown multiple times.

I give GRWM - Get Ready With Me 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. However, I would be careful about showing this at a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival because some of these topics are pretty harsh. By Victoria L., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Young Boy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Young Boy is a sensitive and moving film that I believe audiences will relate to.

The story revolves around a young boy whose mother is ill. We see her on oxygen and don't know the details of her illness, only that the boy is quite troubled by it. He seeks refuge in his treehouse and a dark figure mysteriously appears to offer him hope.

The camera work, audio recording and edited are all top notch. This film was made by a team of students from middle, high school and college who shadowed industry professionals to create this. It's an admirable piece that would play well at any KIDS FIRST! film festival. The outstanding performance by Franklin Young as the boy will stick in your mind long afterwards. The background music also deserves mention as it so perfectly sets the tone of the film.

The film's message is about finding refuge and help in times of fear.

I give Young Boy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 9 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-19
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give No American Left Behind 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - No American Left Behind is a thoughtful documentary made by a high school student that leaves you reeling from its message.

This short film explores the history of underfunding of reservation schools and the neglect of Native Americans who don't receive a proper education.

Brown vs. Board of Education, Native Americans have 1870s Indian Schools were founded to assimilate Native Americans.

This documentary is informative and, if you are unfamiliar with these statistics it will be a wake-up call as it begins in the 1870s when Indian schools were founded to assimilate Native Americans into white culture, taking thousands of young people away from their families and putting them into boarding schools where they were not allowed to speak their native language. That practice ended in the 1930s, but little has been done to assure that Native people receive proper education. In current times, during the pandemic, due to lack of connectivity, many Native Americans were unable to participate in online schooling and hence, the number of Native Americans entering college dropped dramatically. The unemployment rate on some reservations is as high as 89%. The film makes good use of archival photographs and excellent information. The two narrators are quite competent although the audio level skips around a bit and one narrator is particularly fast so it's difficult to follow her. I really appreciate the flute background music, which plays hauntingly throughout.

The film's message is to inform the audience about the history of educational challenges for Native Americans, dating back to the 1870s and continuing today.

I give No American Left Behind 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Mum Said 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. Reviewed by Xiangxi K. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed Mum Said and feel that it has a place in contemporary culture. It is a well-crafted film addressing a delicate family matter when a widowed dad tries to establish a relationship with a new woman and his two children resist it like crazy, fearful that their own mother's memory will be lost in the process. It is well paced and has an adrenaline filled ending that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The story revolves around Lily and Oliver, who have lost their mother and their father, Jim, has a new girlfriend, Anna. Jim plans a camping trip with his girlfriend and children in order to help them bond with each other, but Lily and Oliver have other ideas and are afraid that Anna will replace their mom, so they play pranks on Anna, hoping to get scare her off.

The storyline is a bit predictable and addresses the conflicts that arise when family structures change due to the loss of a parent and spouse. The plot develops quite naturally and predictably, but it's not cloying in any way. The two child protagonists are well portrayed and their situation - having to deal with their father's new girlfriend is relatable. The rationale behind the children wanting to get rid of the girlfriend, Anna, is very touching; they don't want their father to forget about their mother, for whom they are full of love and longing. On the other hand, the love connection between Anna and Jim is a bit unclear. We don't see when they relationship goes from being just friends to something more, so that is confusing. The acting is pretty good, especially from the primary characters - Jim, Anna, Lily and Oliver. The "missing person" here is the deceased mom and wife, whose presence seems omnipotent in the memories of both the children and Jim. The repeated comments -- "Mom said" or "my wife used to say" --become an ominous drum roll in Anna's mind and beg the question of whether this man or his children are ready to move forward or not. It takes a complete meltdown before Jim finally steps up to the plate and addresses his children's poor behavior. It takes an all-out crisis to bring everyone together and realize that there is more to fear than the emotions they have been dealing with.

The camera work is quite good, with adequate lighting and a blend of camera angles throughout. I particularly like the use of animated line drawings at the opening of the film to indicate what is to come. That is heartwarming and lighthearted. I should point out that there is a spot around the 15 min mark when Jim and Anna are at night and the scene is too dark to see them. The setting includes multiple rooms in a middle class home and when they go camping, they are in a vehicle on the road and then in a wooded area. The background music is very non-intrusive gives a calmness to the film.

The theme of the film is about adjusting to new situations after the loss of a loved one and the difficulties it brings. In the end - love conquers all. There are a few unsafe situations that one would not children to replicate, like allowing Anna's hear to be hit by a branch and Oliver overeating chocolate to the point that he vomits.

I give Mum Said 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. Reviewed by Xiangxi K. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

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

I give Love Letters for the Subway 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The animated short, Love Letters For The Subway, clearly tells a compelling and interesting story about NYC subways, with great background music and flawless animation.

In her animated film Love Letters for the Subway, Mary Hawkins uses hand-drawn letters to represent New York City's subway lines. The images in the film are inspired by the architecture, geography, and everyday life of the neighborhoods through which the trains run.

The clever concept and great visuals of Love Letters for the Subway are perfectly suited to the New York City subway system. Each letter or number tells a story, from the Ferris wheel to the protest signs, buildings, staircases, subway pillars, flowers, the pond with ducks, and subway rails. I had to watch the film multiple times to appreciate all of its nuances. The background music by Carlos Dengler is also well-suited to the film, giving it a sense of motion and excitement. Love Letters for the Subway is a love letter to New York City and its inhabitants. The film captures the richness and diversity of life in the city, from the hustle and bustle of the subway to the quiet moments of reflection in Central Park. It is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the city that we call home.

I give Love Letters for the Subway 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give There and Back 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Andrew B., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - There and Back transcends borders and cultures. As a childhood cancer survivor myself, this story resonates with me on a much deeper level than most films do. Besides the story, I have to expound on its beautiful cinematography and art direction. The litany of colors in the scenes with the kids, contrasted with the cold, sterile tones of the hospital with the father, tell so much about each character.

The story follows a young boy whose illness relapses, and he meets a girl in the hospital who shows him how to keep living despite his sickness.

This film tackles the tough, but not uncommon subjects of mortality, living with a sick family member, and learning to prepare for the end of things, and those are important lessons for youth and families. As a childhood cancer survivor I know firsthand what it's like to be so young and yet so isolated in the sterile, cold halls of a hospital. This film excels at showcasing the different attitudes surrounding that. The kids are too young to fully grasp what's going on but they are becoming more aware (and in the case of the girl, she knows exactly what's going on); the Father is struggling not only emotionally, but socially, as he tries to get answers about his son. This story is a very well-woven tapestry of emotions.

The cinematography is outstanding. The camera is used less as a tool and more as another pair of eyes through which we are looking. That coupled with the excellent art direction and color palettes make the technical merits of this film stand out. During the hospital scenes in the film the doctors all wear white coats, yet look somewhat disheveled, signifying that they are all worked to the bone. The patients are all either wearing gowns or their own clothes, depending on how severe their illness is. On the whole the costuming of this film do perfect service to tell the story. There are a lot of different locations and I would be really interested to know which ones were Sets and which ones are actual locations. It is hard to believe that they shot in a working hospital. However, if the hospital was a sound stage, it looks extremely authentic. This film was shot in Russia and I imagine that Russian hospitals look different from the U.S., but it looks believable and authentic. The background music is fitting. At times it's slow and somber, especially in the low moments where drama and nearing-tragedy are on the move; at other times, the music has elation and light hearted fun, as the kids remember what it's like to live.

The film's main protagonist, Mitya (Aleksey Rodionov), starts the film as a quiet and calm boy, and as the film progresses, he becomes more aware of the inevitability of life, and learns to grasp each moment. Marina (Taisiya Kalinina) is a girl that Mitya meets in the hospital, and who convinces him to escape with her to go on an adventure. She's cocky, brash and bold, the perfect antithesis to Mitya, and she draws out that zest for life in Mitya - though, by the end of the film, she matures and doesn't necessarily lose her spark, but she becomes much more reserved as her own illness progresses and she loses someone close to her. The bus scene is probably my favorite, because it showcases the kids on their own, going for their goal, and little to stop them. As I said, the cinematography and color work of this film are both fantastic elements and I would love to see it on a big screen.

This film's primary message is to not let your current circumstances or hardships get in the way of your will to live, even right up to the end. Life is about to enjoying things and not dwelling on what has, what will, or what might happen.

I give There and Back 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Andrew B., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 100 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Innocent 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Innocent is a terrific short film that tackles a difficult issue - of subject misidentification in the legal system.

The story line follows a young person who is misidentified by two witnesses and wrongly convicted of a bank robber, yet we see who the actual robber is.

Excellent product by middle school students. Good camera work; good audio work; good editing; good casting. This short film really serves as a PSA for this important issue as we can easily see the problem that created the misinformation. Well done.

The film's message is about how easily misidentification comes about in today's judicial system.

I give The Innocent 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Tell Tale Heart! 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This is a perfect film for Halloween! By Madeleine H., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love Tell Tale Heart! It is scary in all the right ways, from the narrator to the imagery!

The storyline follows a mad man who lives with his roommate, a half blind man. As time goes by, one of the man's eyes makes him go crazy from sneaking into his room to killing him.

Based on the classic story by Edgar Allen Poe, this short animated film by a high school student rings true to the original. I like the narrator; he is easy to understand and he gets a bit creepier throughout the film. The animation is unique with carefully sculpted clay characters and stop motion animation. I like the odd looking clay people and quirky furniture. The sets have many little details. The main set is an early 1900s house in Ireland with patterned rugs and fancy wooden chairs; the walls have an very lived-in look that makes it seem real. The costumes fit the time with classic British police uniforms and overcoats. The background music works well, making the already scary scenes more terrifying. The protagonist goes from being bothered initially to the break of insanity by his neighbor's eye -- so much that he has to end his neighbor's life. After that, he is still affected by it and it drives him insane. My favorite part is when the red dot of blood appears on the floor and the protagonist immediately tries to cover it.

The film's message is to not let things go to your head. Be aware that it contains bloody, gory acts of violence, blood and killing.

I give Tell Tale Heart! 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This is a perfect film for Halloween! By Madeleine H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Songbird 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed the short film Songbird about change and acceptance. It's difficult to move to a new country where the language is different and you don't have friends or family. Yana is fortunate to meet an outgoing girl who pushes for friendship and helps her to adjust to her new life in a foreign country.

Yana, a young Ukrainian girl, struggles to assimilate into her new Irish school until she meets with Chloe, her new best friend.

This is an exceptionally upbeat film about self-discovery. I found it thought provoking about the difficulty of families displaced by war in Ukraine who are adjusting to a major life change. I really appreciate the message of hope and acceptance in this story, as well as the openness of Yana's new classmates who welcomes her. The cinematography is exceptional. I love all the interesting camera angles catching Yana's face and the lighting in the various scenes. I applaud Evan Barry for exceptional cinematography. The background music is stunning, thanks to composer Liam Bates. Yana (Evalina Soloviova) and Chloe (Lily Rose McCarthy) are both very emotional and expressive girls and I enjoyed watching their friendship develop. The confidence of Chloe is especially appealing as she helps Yana assimilate in her new home. My favorite scenes are when Yana comes home to find that Chloe has welcomed herself in her home pushing their friendship and then later when Yana teaches Chloe how to swim and arrives at an important self-realization.

Change and acceptance are an important part of life and finding that one person who understands and supports you makes a difference.

I give Songbird 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 14 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Teca & Tuti: A Night at the Library 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. By Keila V., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed watching Teca & Tuti: A Night at the Library. It has a wonderful family-friendly storyline and a strong message about the importance of reading.

The storyline is about a moth named Teca (Luy Campos) and her little pet Tuti (Hugo Picchi) who understand the importance of reading instead of eating a book.

I love the story line because it shows the importance of reading and talks about how kids are forgetting to read daily. This film is a combination of animation and live-action. Both are done perfectly --I love how the camera shows the scenery of the city during the live-action parts and in the animation we always get a perfect angle of the characters. For example when Teca turns to a book character the quality of the animation is on point. The costumes are perfect. Teca has a great outfit and always appears with a bow on her antenna. The locations for the live-action are great and the backgrounds of the animation are very well done. The music follows the story line perfectly. Every scene when Teca or another character has a strong feeling the music fits their mood quite well. Zico (Micael Gomes Matos) and his Grandmother (Nelma Nunes) love to read every night and Teca learns how to read and appreciate a book by listening to its story. The Directors Eduardo Perdido, Tiago M. A. Lima, Diego M. Doimo made an amazing film with a very compelling storyline and message to all. My favorite part is when Teca meets her mother.

The film's message is that we all should go more to the library and read constantly.

I give Teca & Tuti: A Night at the Library 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. By Keila V., KIDS FIRST!

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm

I give A Trace 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - A Trace is my new favorite film of the day. Beautifully animated and addressing a difficult topic of absentee fathers - or parents.

The storyline follows a little girl whose father has left the family and her feelings about that. Ultimately, she is able to let go of him and realize that her family is herself and her mom.

Great animation. Beautiful rendered. I love how the little girl is created and the backgrounds are also quite wonderful. But, the focus here really is on the storyline, which is told amazingly well, without narration.

The film's message is about being able to let go and move on when someone walks out of your life.

I give A Trace 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Amelia Earhart 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love this short documentary about Amelia Earhart, the woman who dared! It has a great mix of background information, historical photos and inspiration.

This middle school student made documentary tells the story of Amelia Earhart, a woman who was ahead of her time.

This film tells an inspirational story and provides information in an easy format for audiences to digest. I really like how the content unfolds; it's very easy to follow and, for anyone unfamiliar with our heroine Amelia Earhart, very eye-opening. The selection of historical photos and timeline are excellent and, together with good editing, deliver a commendable short film about Ms. Earhart. The background music works well and the narrator's voice is quite good, although the audio is not always very clear and, at times the background music overshadows the narration. I especially love the photos and information about her early years. The titles really stand out here as they make treat transitions between sections and are very well done. The challenges she overcame from her early years show her spirit and how truly inspirational she really is.

The film's message is to dare to dream and follow those dreams.

I give Amelia Earhart 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Crayonerella 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Selene W., and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Crayonerella is a fun twist on the classic tale of Cinderella, featuring crayons as characters.

The middle student-made animated film is inspired by the Cinderella story and told with crayons.

The narrator, Elia Defore, is really good; I enjoyed listening to her tell the story. She is also the writer, director, producer and cinematographer. The camera work is pretty good - all the images are clear. I like the ending, when a human hand comes onto the screen to turn the page and close the book. The backgrounds are very basic - white! The audio is very good; it's nice and clear. I particularly enjoyed the voice inflection by the narrator. I love the ending where Elia Defore tells what inspired her to create this short film.

This film reminds me how creativity and imagination are blessings.

I give Crayonerella 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Selene W., and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Neglected 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Congratulations on creating a film with such a hard-hitting message.

This short film, by a middle-school student delivers a strong message about abused or neglected children.

The camera work and audio recording are quite good. The titling with its poignant messages really drive home the film's message and are very impactful and clear to read.

The film's message is to create an awareness of abused or neglected children and encourages the audience to look for the signs.

I give Neglected 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give L.E.O. 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Pamela L., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This is a remarkable documentary about the rationale behind the "love each other" concept adopted by the IU football team, which has now been incorporated by other teams in Bloomington, Indiana where this takes place.

This video is about how the Indiana University Football team teaches concept of "Love Each Other" to its players, coaches, and fans.

I love the idea of this documentary but it has some issues with the production values due to poor lighting, poor audio recording and students speaking too fast or not enunciating well. However, the message overshadows the delivery and, for that reason, I'm recommending it. Keep in mind that this is made by middle school students and we hope they will improve their attention to production details in future work. Love is a concept often not taught or promoted in schools or on sports teams and that is the key concept that is explored and defined in this short film. I believe audiences will overlook the production flaws and relish the message these young people bring forth here. I say, Bravo to them for choosing this topic for their film.

The film's message is about loving each other, despite our differences.

I give L.E.O. 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Pamela L., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give A Mile 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 through 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - In the face of insurmountable odds, a lone boot embarks on a perilous journey back to its rightful home. From treacherous terrains to unforgiving elements, the boot confronts unimaginable obstacles that test its resilience and determination. Through sheer determination and unexpected alliances, the boot defies the odds, teaching us that even the smallest of beings can triumph against adversity and find their way back to where they belong.

What a charming animated short this is, very well executed. This fits right in to the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival as it easily generates discussions about fitting in.

The film begins as we see a lone boot in a snowstorm that tries to go inside a building to get out of the storm but is prevented from doing so by other foot ware. He's rescued by some bags that may be filled with money, as we see money flies all around him. They protect him and escort him to a house where he's greeted by a single high heel and, ultimately, his life turns around in the best way. Using foot ware as the main characters is an interesting way to define characters with different personalities or ethnic backgrounds. The boot perseveres, regardless of its situation and, when united with the high heel, we see how its life is fulfilled. The animation of this film is very well done; I love the subtle details like the snowdrifts, the door closing, the flying dollar bills, the high heel with a bow at the back, the shoelaces connecting the shoe family at the tables as if they are arms and hands, and more. I enjoyed the background music, especially the outro under the credits. Very well done!

The film's message is spelled out at the end: you never know what someone is going through unless you walk a mile in their shoes.

I give A Mile 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 through 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Ana Morphose 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Keila V. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed watching the film, Ana Morphose. It might be my favorite film that I've watched so far, although I did not always understand what was going on.

The film is about a girl who is very curious and loves to read before going to sleep. One night as dozes off to sleep she enters into her imagination.

I love the animation; the images are very sweet and soft focused. The girl's face lacks a mouth, which is interesting since there is no dialogue. I'm not so keen on her lack of having a mouth -- it's weird when she eats something that a little opening appears that allows her to eat. My favorite scene is where Ana gets sucked into her imagination. Her whole world spins and she is sucked into the book she is reading. This film is non-narrative and I did get a bit lost at some points and wasn't sure exactly what was going on. I did get that Ana loves to read and imagines herself being part of the story. Ana's costume is simple and fitting for her character - a blue dress with a pleated skirt. At one point, she touches her waistline and a flipbook sort of thing appears creating an animated story within the story. As she walks through the imaginary world she's been drawn into, the ground appears to be littered with pages of a book and then, she emerges, from another book, pulling herself up by the bookmark and, la voila, is back in her own bedroom. She peers into a mirror and sees a distorted image of herself and uses twine to tie herself to the objects in her room. It's all very odd and esoteric. Because this is a non-narrative, the background music plays an important role. It is pretty unobtrusive yet helps keep the film moving at a steady pace. From the beginning to the end, Ana is the only character in the film. She is a curious girl who wants to solve problems and pays attention to little details throughout the story. The Director (Joao Rodrigues) and Producer (Rodrigo Areias) have definitely created an interesting piece of art. The images are extraordinary. The storyline is thought provoking and allows the audience to interpret it in their own way.

The film's message is that every problem can be solved.

I give Ana Morphose 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Keila V. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Such A Pretty Face 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Anna Clara B., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Such A Pretty Face is an awesome short film. This is a Brazilian movie and I am Brazilian so I can relate to it. But more importantly it talks with life situations that are universal -- how the bullying is hard and how we can deal with it.

The story follows a young girl, Celina, who, at puberty, begins to suffer exclusion from her friends and tries to do everything to please everyone. However, she discovers that this is not how things work.

This film hits home. It's so realistic in portraying the type of situation that Celina handles. This film is one that many young people should see, because of the script and the story. It teaches a lot. I like this film so much that I don't see any downsides, only positives, which I want to bring up here. I love the plot development from seeing Celina happy until the moment her life changes. It is impressive to see this, because when you watch it you felt all her emotions. The camera work is quite good; I really paid attention to every camera angle and found them interesting. There are close-ups that clearly show the kids' facial expressions and long shots that give us a view of her in her surroundings. The costumes are very typical for pre-teens and each one matches the personality of the character. Some are more extravagant than others, just like how the girls behave. More attention is put on the development of the protagonist, Celina, whose behavior changes due to the bullying. My favorite part is when Celina is with her friends after school and they start solving girly issues.

The film's message is that you need to develop self-love and not care that much about what other people say about you, and let your own happiness fulfill you.

I give Such A Pretty Face 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Anna Clara B., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 19 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Palette of Progress: Feicheng Through My Grandfather's Eyes 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie s., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a lovely documentary we find in Palette of Progress: Feicheng Through My Grandfather's Eyes. Created by the grandson of an accomplished Chinese artist, Mike Xu truly pays homage to his grandfather, Zhang Hua Qing.

This documentary follows Mike Xu's personal travels to Feicheng in Shandong province in China to explore his grandfather's art and the heritage of his family.

Beautifully constructed, this documentary reveals as much about the filmmaker as it does his quest to learn more about his grand father and the origins of art in his family. Nice camera work, excellent narration and very good editing make this easy to watch, learn and understand from.

The film's message is really about exploring your family origins and allowing yourself the opportunity to learn from your elders and their community.

I give Palette of Progress: Feicheng Through My Grandfather's Eyes 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie s., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Paula's Dad And The Right Button In His Head 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a wonderfully imaginative film Paula's Dad And The Right Button In His Head is. The plot is clever and the aspect of connecting the main story to one written by the father is also very interesting. I like the music and the childlike graphics. Note that it is from Germany with dialogue in German and English subtitles.

A girl named Paula is disgruntled by the new place she and her family have moved to. She doesn't want to play with the other children that she doesn't know and feeling alone, retreats to the balcony hoping her Dad will come and play with her. Suddenly, she is blown away by a big cold wind which is interesting because Dad just invented the wind robbers and the big cold wind for his new children's story. A really weird adventure starts as the father goes in search of his daughter.

This short film is very funny and presented in a fresh way that should appeal to children. I like the storyline, which many kids will resonate with. As the father goes on his way to find his daughter, he asks a lot of people if they have seen her. The presentation is creative and it is interesting to see the children as a dominant group of people who are doing a lot of professions that only adults can do in the real world. And I like when the father is locked up, because he wasn't available for his children, which seems like a situation a child might conjure. The camerawork is well executed. My favorite scene is when the wind takes the girl away. I especially like the sets; even though you can tell they're all fake -- they are childlike and feel almost like a child's scrapbook. The background music is super good -- they are very interesting and fit the storyline. The key cast members are the girl, played by Lisa Sweeney and her dad, played by Bodo Koch, both of whom give admirable performances. My favorite character is the little girl in the robber's group because she makes a lot of the decisions and is very thoughtful in her conversations with others. My favorite scene is the very beginning when it introduces the kids. It's an interesting blend of animation and live action.

The film's messages are about the importance of family love and creativity.

I give Paula's Dad And The Right Button In His Head 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 40 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give A Happy Pizza Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for age 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love this film, what a beautiful story about the love between siblings.

The story follows Krishna, a young boy and older brother of Shweta, who yearns to taste pizza on her birthday. Although Kristna has no means to buy it for her, he promises to fulfill her wish.

The story evolves quite naturally, and we observe how dedicated Kristna is to making his sister's wish come true. He does everything he can do to earn enough money to buy her pizza on her birthday and, when he does, the unexpected happens. Beautifully shot with wonderful camerawork and audio recording. Great cast, especially the two actors playing Krishna and Shweta, but also the pizza guy. This really is a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival ideal film as it not only shows positive behavior but also gives us a glimpse into life in India among a family with limited financial resources.

The film's message is about the love between siblings.

I give A Happy Pizza Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for age 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 17 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Vegetarian Exploration 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The documentary Vegetarian Exploration offers some good insights into the pros and cons of vegetarianism.

This film, by an 18-year-old interviews a number of people about their views of vegetarianism.

The interviews are quite well done. Occasionally, there are audio issues due to too much background noise, but for the most part you can hear people speak as they express their views. I have to credit the filmmaker with giving a variety of views, although it lacks any statistics that might support people's views. The most predominant con about eating meat is the effects of raising meat on the climate and hence, the planet.

The film's message is really to inform the audience of the pros and cons of vegetarianism.

I give Vegetarian Exploration 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Slanted Perspectives: My Life with SMA 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Your life will be changed from watching this film. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wow! What an insightful short film by this young filmmaker that shares what his life is like as someone who lives with a severe disability.

This documentary shows how a teenager with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) lives his life and how he has been able to persevere even with this disability.

This remarkable documentary by a 15-year-old took my breath away. This young man shares what his life is like living with a debilitating disease that prevents him from being able to walk or even sit or turn his head side to side on his own. It is really remarkable how he created this film and shares his insights with us in hopes that people will think differently about people with disabilities.

The filmmaker shares his reason for making the film, which is to try to help people learn about kids like him who can't walk so they can understand more about what life is like for them.

I give Slanted Perspectives: My Life with SMA 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Your life will be changed from watching this film. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Slime from Outer Space 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - If you're a fan of documentaries, you'll love The Slime from Outer Space.

The film follows a group of kids as they making a sci-fi film.

Good camera work; good audio work. Funny plot. This easily fits in as an interstitial in between more serious programming perhaps, or as part of a comedy sequence.

The film's message is to not take yourself too seriously.

I give The Slime from Outer Space 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Untitled Delaware Project 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Sometimes you just have to be silly and that is exactly what Untitled Delaware Project by middle school student is - goofy to the nth degree. If Saturday Night Live was made by kids, this segment would fit right in.

This is a tongue-in-cheek film featuring two young tweens making a very misinformed travel documentary about DC Washington Delaware - that should give you a clue about how ill-informed it is. I had mixed feelings about this from the get go with the very shaky hand-held video, but then realized that all the poor video was intentional, even the two hosts wearing hats that put their faces in shadow 50% of the time. If you're tired of being serious, then this will give you some comic relief from the kids standing in front of a sign saying chemically treated water and saying that it's fresh water to joking about this being where pizza was invented or claiming that in New Jersey they don't have grass. The film's message is about not taking things too seriously.

I give Untitled Delaware Project 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Patch Work 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Captivating! Patch Work's authentic portrayal of a teenage girl's emotional journey amid her parents' divorce is relatable and moving. The film's narrative depth and profound message about healing make it a must-see for its powerful storytelling.

The story follows a resistant teenage girl, Sadie, grappling with her parents' divorce and her mother's infidelity, ultimately finding healing and acceptance through therapy's transformative journey.

I recommend Patch Work for the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. Its relatable themes, authentic portrayal of adolescent struggles, and positive message about therapy and self-discovery make it a suitable and impactful choice for tween and teen audiences and families. The storyline immerses us in someone's real-life experiences, creating the feeling that we are witnessing genuine emotions, not just watching a film. The tone and point of view enhance this sense of authenticity and connection. The story development and character growth further are completely engaging. The cinematography impresses with its creative angles, especially when showing Katie engaging in therapeutic activities. For instance, unique shots provide an intimate view of her journaling and doing patchwork, bringing the audience closer to her emotional journey. One standout moment is when Sadie finally lowers her guard and connects with her therapist. The camera work brilliantly captures this breakthrough, allowing the audience to feel the emotional impact of that moment. Additionally, the film excels in presenting the intricate details of patchwork up close. However, there are a couple of scenes that are poorly lit; one in Katie's bedroom when she and her mom fight. And again, in the living room when Katie brings her patchwork to her mom. The light on the patchwork is fine, but the light on both Katie and her mom is very poor and hence, the closing scene is way too dark. The costumes seamlessly suit the storyline, with everyday attire that aligns perfectly with the characters and the modern-day setting. Sadie's attire matches her personality. The sets and locations excellently complement the story. The scenes in the therapist's office provide an authentic atmosphere for these crucial moments. Katie's bedroom is fitting for a teenager and the dining room, where the mother-daughter relationship unfolds, convincingly resembles a natural home environment. The background music is used sparingly and when it is used, it is subtle and quiet. Sophia Saunier delivers a compelling performance as Sadie, the film's central character. Throughout the narrative, Sadie undergoes significant character development. Initially, she's seen as a resistant and angry teenager, struggling to accept her parents' divorce and her mother's infidelity, which has left her emotionally wounded. Her character gradually opens up and begins to engage with the therapist, Dr. Adam (Trisha Haun). This growth is reflected in Saunier's acting and interactions with Dr. Adam, demonstrating a journey toward self-acceptance and healing. The character development is a testament to the actors' ability to convey their respective roles' emotional depth and growth, making it a poignant and relatable exploration of personal transformation.

Patch Work owes its success to the remarkable contributions of its behind-the-scenes team. High school student directors, Ginger Craghead-Way, Cate Slaughter, Sophia Saunier and Henry Abney exhibit a clear vision and storytelling prowess beyond their years. Their collaboration results in a narrative that authentically captures the story's emotional depth. The production design team is another standout, creating an immersive environment that enhances the film's realism. Locations such as the therapist's office and Sadie's bedroom meticulously match the characters' personalities and the story's overall tone. Lastly, the costume choices, though subtle, are apt, with characters wearing attire that fits their roles and the modern-day setting. Together, the collaborative efforts of these behind-the-scenes contributors elevate the film into an emotionally resonant and authentic cinematic experience. My favorite part is when Sadie begins the patchwork activity. It is a pivotal breakthrough. Witnessing the patchwork gradually come together is visually captivating and emotionally satisfying, highlighting the power of therapy and self-discovery in the film.

The film's message revolves around the capacity for personal growth and healing through therapy and self-exploration, highlighting the potential for positive change even in challenging circumstances.

I give Patch Work 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give I, Santa Claus 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I, Santa Claus is not your usual Christmas story, but it delivers a message of kindness and how an innocent boy changed the life of a would-be thief.

The storyline follow a thief who is caught in the midst of stealing by a blind boy, who mistakes him for Santa Claus. They get into a conversation and the thief puts back the money he was going to take. He is moved by Joseph's innocence and kindness.

This short is well produced with clear video and audio. The video capture was a challenge as it takes place at night inside a home - but we can see the characters clearly. The acting is what makes this film terrific - from both the thief and the boy, Joseph. They both deliver believable roles and make you feel they are the characters they portray. The set is a Christmas decorated living room. The background music is light and non-intrusive. I like everything about this, but the message is really the best part.

The film's message is about changing your ways when you realize that they don't represent the "best of who you are."

I give I, Santa Claus 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Little Luna 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for age 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a lovely short fantasy animation this is. Perfect for letting your imagination wander.

The story follows a little girl, Little Luna, as she explores her imagination and travels to a host of magical places. This short is part of the Gorjuss Anthology, which is a series of bedtime stories for children using the image of a Gorjuss doll.

The film's animation is stunningly beautiful. Luna is so cute you relish her every movement and the narration, in iambic pentameter suits her so darn well. The background music is quite lovely although it often overshadows the narration, making it difficult to understand what is being said. The images of Luna's fantasy are spectacular - outer space, dancing, dreaming, discovering worlds beyond our own and finding a star in her pocket, a string from a magical moonbeam. She dreams so big that she makes them come true.

The film's message is to dream big and allow your fantasies to materialize in whatever way possible - be it real or make believe.

I give Little Luna 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for age 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give the film 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend if for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Debra L., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wow! What an exquisite production. I absolutely love Alchemist Cursed in Time -- it's a quality fantasy movie. Even though I haven't seen the first one, this one doesn't suffer from lack of understanding. I really like the story - it is simple and easy to understand, and filled with content about love and the people who are important to you. It is perfect for children and Amelia (Eliska Krenkova) makes a great heroine role model.

Alchemist Cursed In Time is a sequel to the Czech fantasy Princess Cursed In Time. In this film, Alazar (Jan Jackuliak) takes young Amelia and her friends to a magical city where they have an adventure where they discover mysterious and powerful forces, most importantly that there are two Amelias in the world. That takes them to the magic city and on a mission to save the world. Amelia discovers that the reason for Alazar's reappearance in the world has something to do with her.

This is really an outstanding film. I absolutely love the story line. Although I haven't watched the first movie, it appears to be related to the first movie, so if you have, you will doubly appreciate it. I really enjoyed the plot. Fantasy movies are perfect for capturing children's attention and they can learn about things like courage and protecting the people who are important to them. We watch how Amelia grows up and learn about her relationship with the people she cares about. I really love how Amelia's character transforms; she has to face a lot of dilemmas and has to deal with the situation of her other self in the world. Her confusion at the beginning and then her determination at the end are very well presented. It shows how she knows her duty and how her courage increases. I especially liked learning why Alazar appeared and how Amelia's story is also connected in series.

The production is truly first class. The camera work is really outstanding with a large variety of shots from detailed close-ups to distance shots. I especially like the big establish scenes, which are very beautiful and grandiose, and show where the characters are and how they move about. I love the locations, especially the scenes in the mountains, which are very majestic. The sets are also great, revealing a magical ancient world. The background music fits the story very well - it's very epic and magical feeling. I especially like the vocal singing that occurs later in the film; it has an ethereal and wondrous feeling to it. The costumes are outstanding! In particular the women's dresses very much define their characters. Amelia's costume is very different from the Princess's; the purple color of Amelia's dress emphasizes her ability to use magic, while the Princess's gowns are mostly white, showing a more noble and regal feel. Of course, the costumes of the other male characters also fit the background of the story very well. The sets are excellently crafted, particularly the castle and the houses near the streets. The special effects are very effective, represent the story well and are of extremely high quality. For example, the aperture on the wall that allows people to pass through the wall is quite striking. The green circle of light that appears from time to time when they use magic also works well. The acting is also outstanding, especially the character of Amelia, whose character has dramatic growth as the film develops. But the other key characters, Prince John, Princess Ellena, Edwin, Marien and, of course, Alazar, are all excellent in their roles. My favorite part of the film is when they come to the enchanted city and pass by a beauty salon. One of the salon's customers don't come in person for her beauty treatments, but instead uses magic to transport parts of her body there, like her feet or head. That scene is clever and very funny and shows how the city is full of magical qualities.

The film's message is about courage, adventure and magic.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K., KIDS FIRST!

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm

I give this film 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Marissa S.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This documentary is part fun and part serious.

The young filmmaker (elementary school) take a serious look at whether or not children should be allowed to swear.

The many interviews with adults and kids are insightful and well shot, for the most part. The outdoor scene lacks a windscreen so the audio is distorted. But, for the most part it is well made. I admire this young man for taking this on and giving it a thorough overview. There are no hard and fast conclusions. He ends with, "what do you think."

The film's message is about whether or not kids should be allowed to swear.

I give this film 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Marissa S.
Runtime: 9 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Warrior Intern's Quest for Love 3,5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Warrior Intern's Quest for Love tells a story of devotion and love.

The storyline follows a Korean man who vowed to be a Kungfu master before proposing to the woman he loves and then has a second thought after meditating.

This is pretty well produced, although the parts where the man is talking with the Kungfu master outdoors suffers from not having a windscreen on the microphone so there is a lot of audio distortion. The blend of animation with live action is well done.

The film's message is to be true to yourself.

I give Warrior Intern's Quest for Love 3,5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Savagelings: Ginji series, Episode 7 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Reviewed by Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Another wonderful and lively episode of The Savagelings: Ginji Series.

This series, filmed in Armenia, Cyprus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, United States, and directed by Slava Ushakov delivers a beautifully produced animated show that just wows me!

This episode takes our protagonist, Vanilla to the Tundara in hopes of improving her rating as a courier. Ginji accompanies her and the adventure escalates from there.

I am totally enchanted by the animation in this show. It is everything that great animation should be - unique characters, great movement, great backgrounds... and a fun storyline. Vanilla's way of moving through the world is commendable as she always leads with kindness, even when those around her are less so. Her innocence is partly why we love her so much. And her backpack Ginji is equally awesome. I love how it turns into a flying machine. It's crazy and wacky and fun.

Vanilla reminds us that kindness matters and helps you navigate the world better than anything else.

I give The Savagelings: Ginji series, Episode 7 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Reviewed by Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 13 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Street Light 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S. KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Street Light is a brilliantly made film, but I'm a bit perplexed about what it means or what it is all about.

The description tells me that it's about a boy who realizes that time is not his only enemy, but light also is.

The animation is terrific. All the characters look very realistic, although their movements are decidedly jerky. They look very Ai created.

I'm unsure about the film's message although it appears to be that the boy can outsmart the light.

I give Street Light 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S. KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give I Want to Be In the Karate Club 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Aaron Phelps, you have done it again! What a great film this is! I Want to Be In the Karate Club teaches such an important message about not underestimating someone's capabilities. Love it!

This short film by a 15-year-old disabled filmmaker shows how, even when someone is unable to fully participate, they can participate.

I love the storyline of this film and admire this young filmmaker so much. Plus his sense of humor is absolutely spot on. Great camera work here, good audio, good acting. Very good production as a whole. Most importantly is the film's message.

This film reminds us that kids who are differently abled still deserve the opportunity to participate as much as possible.

I give I Want to Be In the Karate Club 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Mysterious Amulet 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a charming little fantasy film this is. Perfect for young people.

The story follows an 11-year-old girl, Marie, who is visiting a national park with her parents when she discovers a cave where she finds an amulet, talking animals and learns about how the landscape has changed over the many years.

The animation is absolutely gorgeous - it reminds me of a moving watercolor. And the characters, from the little girl, to the talking animals, are very realistic, in an abstract sort of way. The storyline reminds us of the beauty around us and how important it is. I was a bit concerned about the girl wandering off from her parents and entering the cave by herself - which is certainly not something we recommend - but keep in mind that it is fantasy and, in the end, she is reunited with her parents.

The film's message is about taking care of our planet.

I give The Mysterious Amulet 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 11 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give All You've Got 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - All You've Got gives us insight into a mixed cultural family dealing with teaching their child the father's native Chinese language.

The story follows a young boy whose dad is Chinese and mother is American. The dad wants him to learn Chinese and thinks it will help connect him with his past and help him in the future. The boy resists until the Dad finds a way to motivate him.

Bribery always works with kids and, in this case, definitely makes an impact. This is a well produced short film with a simple message and is relevant not only to Chinese Americans but any mixed cultural family. The camerawork is good, so is the audio and the acting is spot on. Nothing is too dramatically unique here, it's just a good short film with a simple message.

The film's message is about the importance for bi-cultural children to be taught the native language and culture of both sides of their family.

I give All You've Got 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 14 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give The Key 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Key delivers a poignant message about our addiction to using our cars and the impact on emissions and the planet. Well done.

I really enjoy this short high school made film. It's almost like a PSA (public service announcement) for thoughtful car use. The images are clear, so is the audio. And the message really hits home. It makes you think about how much you use your own car.

The film's message is about the impact of car usage on the health of our planet.

I give The Key 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Skip Her 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Selene W. and Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The cinematography in Skip Her is beautiful, but the storyline is really unclear. If I hadn't read the synopsis, I wouldn't have understood what was going on. There is very little dialogue, which is fine as the action mostly describes what is transpiring. However, the one thing that is unclear to me is understanding why the parents don't feel that Molly is not old enough to have a Barbie. The background music is great and represents Molly's emotions, but doesn't help us connect to her.

The story follows Molly (Lilou Traista), who wishes for a Barbie doll for her ninth Birthday. She is seen oogling over them at the shop where they are sold and clearly keen on having a Barbie of her own. The story is about how Molly handles her disappointment when her parents give her a Skipper doll instead of a Barbie.

It's a challenge to understand what is really going on between the family members in this film, particularly with Molly's parents. I can't relate to the idea that a 9-year-old girl is not ready to play with a Barbie doll since many girls much earlier than age 9 do, so that premise is completely lost on me. The cinematography by Niklas Ribbarp is really beautiful. I love the lakeside scene where everything is grayscale except for one woman, I imagine it is her mother, who is wearing a bright red skirt. The cinematography really evokes the 1970s timeframe and emotions typical of that era. The costumes definitely are reminiscent of the 1970s and take us backwards in time. The background music by Arnaud Drieu is beautiful and somewhat melancholy. It is a beautiful score and perhaps is supposed to depict the sadness of Molly's situation. I definitely didn't feel the joy and anticipation that a young girl would have for an upcoming birthday. And, Molly's pesky brother's (Albin Goq) behavior doesn't seem to relate to the overall purpose of the story. There is not much character development shown in Molly, which makes it difficult for me to connect with her character, although I do appreciate her decision at the end to put the doll that she has no use for into a jar - presumably to never be played with. That is when Molly takes control of her situation. Sara Key is the writer, director and costume designer. I really like the costumes and feel they are one of the strengths of the film - they really take you back to the time period. My favorite scene is the introduction which shows all the period Barbie dolls and sets the nostalgic scene and feeling.

The film's message is about managing disappointment and I do love how Molly does that in the ending scene.

I give Skip Her 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Selene W. and Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Boundless Imagination 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a heartfelt story! I love Boundless Imagination! I was prepared not to from the opening scenes and seeing the mother as so stern, but her about face when she discovers that her son is creating a story about the two of them turns it into something charming.

The storyline follows a boy caught up in creating an imaginary world when he should be studying. HIs mother walks in on him and, just as she is about to take away his toys, discovers that she is part of his make believe world and that changes everything. Beautifully animated, with very life like characters - both in and out of the story within the story. It is non-narrative, but the images tell everything. Just a beautiful short film all in all.

The film's message is about trusting your child to explore their imagination, you never know what might transpire.

I give Boundless Imagination 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Maybe a little? 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Adorable. Love the blend of animation and live action. The little girl is just as charming as can be. Since the dialogue is in Hebrew, with English subtitles, we have to age this up since younger kids can't read subtitles.

The story is about a little girl who wants another glass of juice, which her mother denies as she doesn't want her to have to go pee. The girl claims who won't, and a whole team of animated characters come to her aid, to help her keep her promise. Will it work?

Great animation and great characters. Nice camerawork, good audio recording. Overall lovely sweet short film.

The film's message is that even a team of helpers can't help you when you drink too many liquids.

I give Maybe a little? 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Marissa S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO

I give Northern Exploration - Svalbard, Norway, Iceland and Greenland 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What I like about Northern Exploration - Svalbard, Norway, Iceland and Greenland is that it introduces three Nordic countries and uses a multitude of images to show them. I have always been interested in these countries and enjoyed learning more about them.

This documentary addresses the history of these Nordic countries and how climate change is affecting them today.

This is a nature documentary and discusses the history of the different countries as well as their politics. The camerawork is terrific; the beautiful scenery is stunningly portrayed, enough to make you want to visit as soon as possible. I especially like some of the shots that were shot with drones; it's a different feeling to see them from a very high angle. The entire film is focused on a multitude of locations, except at the end when the narrator appears in front of the camera. I especially like the soundtrack for this documentary -- it's very gentle and soothing and works very well with the narrator. The information given varies from the scientific to social/political. For example, I learned that the citizens used to pay 70% of what they earned to the king, which makes their high taxation today seem not so bad. My favorite moment is at the end of the movie when a girl sings and the background scene shows a stunning view.

The film offers a multi-faceted look at these three Nordic countries, exploring its landscapes, regional cultures, and politics.

I give Northern Exploration - Svalbard, Norway, Iceland and Greenland 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K.
Runtime: 56 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO