Ages 12-18 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The storyline follows a girl with a mobility disability who wishes she could ride horses. Another girl who is an outstanding rider gets hurt and the two girls start a friendship because they are both injured. It asks the question, "Who will step in to cover for the champion rider?"

There is more to this movie than a horse competition - the plot left me on the edge of my seat and the emotions of the girls are very relatable, especially for teenagers. The main characters are Jolie (Alexis Arnold), Bridget (Eva Igo) and Coach Jimmy (Tom Vera). Jodie has a back disability and Bridget is a champion rider, coached by Jimmy. They are all entwined in an intricate storyline that is well-planned and intriguing. The sets and locations stay true to the plot, as the action takes place mostly in the stable or the arena. My favorite part is when Jodie becomes strong enough to ride a horse. The look on her face is heartwarming and it's rewarding to see her develop the strength and courage to ride. Sometimes, the lighting and the sound are a bit off and the camerawork is shaky at times, all of which are unsettling.

The film's message is that friends and family are extremely important. They'll always be there for you throughout hardships and we see that between Bridget and Jolie. It's also about following your passions, especially when they make you happy. It promotes overcoming challenges and reminds us that we are capable of pursuing our dreams.

I give If I Could Ride 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. If I Could Ride comes out on VOD and DVD April 4, 2023.

I really enjoyed If I Could Ride's message. The plot is very fascinating and compelling and is cleverly written. The characters are all teenagers that are going through struggles, physically and mentally.

The storyline follows a girl with a mobility disability who wishes she could ride horses. Another girl who is an outstanding rider gets hurt and the two girls start a friendship because they are both injured. It asks the question, "Who will step in to cover for the champion rider?"

There is more to this movie than a horse competition - the plot left me on the edge of my seat and the emotions of the girls are very relatable, especially for teenagers. The main characters are Jolie (Alexis Arnold), Bridget (Eva Igo) and Coach Jimmy (Tom Vera). Jodie has a back disability and Bridget is a champion rider, coached by Jimmy. They are all entwined in an intricate storyline that is well-planned and intriguing. The sets and locations stay true to the plot, as the action takes place mostly in the stable or the arena. My favorite part is when Jodie becomes strong enough to ride a horse. The look on her face is heartwarming and it's rewarding to see her develop the strength and courage to ride. Sometimes, the lighting and the sound are a bit off and the camerawork is shaky at times, all of which are unsettling.

The film's message is that friends and family are extremely important. They'll always be there for you throughout hardships and we see that between Bridget and Jolie. It's also about following your passions, especially when they make you happy. It promotes overcoming challenges and reminds us that we are capable of pursuing our dreams.

I give If I Could Ride 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. If I Could Ride comes out on VOD and DVD April 4, 2023.

If I Could Ride is an uplifting and engaging film that's perfect for kids, teens, families and especially horse lovers. If I Could Ride emphasizes how anyone can form a life changing bond, even if they come from different backgrounds.

If I Could Ride follows Bridget Van Heusen (Eva Igo) and Jodie Davis (Alexis Arnold), two girls from completely different worlds. Bridget is a rich, talented horse rider who is constantly pressured and berated to do her absolute best and uphold the Van Heusen legacy. Jodie is a poorer girl with a physical disability that prevents her from doing many things, including walking and riding a horse, her dream in life. Bridget must navigate her family issues and her own internal struggles; while Jodie must keep a positive attitude as she takes small steps towards her dream of riding a horse. An unexpected crossing of paths leads to an unlikely friendship that might last a lifetime.

The actors' performances in If I Could Ride are what make this film so impactful emotionally. Eva Igo amazingly portrays every emotion that Bridget is feeling. Bridget's life is very difficult, with doubts of whether her parents love her and constant pressure to do her absolute best every time she competes on horseback. Eva Igo shows her frustration and sadness building up throughout the entire film until it reaches its breaking point. The raw emotion truly makes the film's message so much more effective. Similarly, Alexis Arnold's performance as the optimistic, determined and unbelievably sweet Jodie is just as important for If I Could Ride's theme. Alexis Arnold captures Jodie's delicate personality in a way that gives the audience someone to root for. Both actresses show their characters' development emotionally and physically throughout the entire film. Additionally, Tom Vera's performance as Jimmy is vital for the plot. Tom Vera embraces Jimmy's backstory and turns him into another treasured protagonist rather than just a backup character. Jimmy could just be Bridget's trainer and the person who cares for the horses, but he instead connects his own background to his job and Bridget's story. The landscapes in this film are beautiful -- from wide open fields to forests crowded with towering trees to horse stables, every setting is simple yet magnificent.

The theme of If I Could Ride is that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. Jodie must overcome many obstacles if she wants to reach her final goal of riding a horse. If I Could Ride also shows how family life can really affect someone's personality and feelings, as we see with Bridget and her situation. The film also focuses on forming bonds and taking steps towards good communication with people you love. There are some very sad and slightly scary moments, such as falling off of a horse and some scenes in hospitals.

I give If I Could Ride 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch If I Could Ride on DVD and VOD beginning April 4, 2023.

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

If I could Ride Is an emotional movie filled with amazing life lessons that I enjoyed.

The storyline follows two girls living in two different worlds - Jodie (Alexis Arnold) who dreams of a life riding horses but can't because she has a physical disability and Bridgett (Eva Igo), the reigning equestrian champion. When Bridgett is injured, the two girls come together to learn the importance of following your dream and not giving up.

This is a very emotional story, well made. The storyline is well written and the girls' personalities are well developed. They won my heart! Jodie lives hard and, with the passing of her father, her hard-working mother works even harder. Bridgett lives at a beautiful farm, rides well, and is very competitive. She is unappreciative of what she has and is mean and belittling to everyone. These two girls' paths cross and the story follows the success of one and the failure of the other. My favorite part is when Jodie�s mother motivates her when she's sad. I enjoyed the soundtrack for the film, especially the voice of (name the singer here).

The film's message is to never give up on your dreams; everything is possible; just try.

I give If I could Ride 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD and DVD April 4, 2023.

Taking place in Philadelphia, Shazam: Fury of the Gods continues the story of Billy Batson (Asher Angel) who turns into his adult superhero alter ego, Shazam (Zachary Levi), when he yells "SHAZAM!" In this sequel, he is pursued by the Daughters of Atlas, who come to Earth to avenge their father's death and retrieve the magical powers that the wizard Shazam (Djimon Hounsou) took from their father, Atlas. Joined by his family of fellow superheroes, Billy must defeat the three ancient goddesses in order to save the planet.

Billy Batson/Shazam is the protagonist, but his extended family consisting of Mary (Grace Caroline Murray), "Captain Every Power" Freddie (Jack Dylan Grazer/Adam Brody), Darla (Faithe Herman/Meagan Good), Eugene (Ian Chen/Ross Butler) and Pedro (Jovan Armand/D.J. Cotrona) are just as important to this film. I find it interesting how all the characters aged up and are played by someone else in their hero form except for Mary, who is played by the same person for both the regular and superhero versions of her character. One of my favorite parts is when the heroes write a negotiation letter to the Atlas Sisters and they think Steve, the magical pen, has edited everything they said for him to write. When the sisters receive the letter, it includes all the side conversations, word for word, which makes a hilarious scene. The costumes are Halloween-worthy! And, of course, you can't forget about the sand people, lightning and other captivating special effects.

Family is the constant theme throughout Shazam: Fury of the Gods. Billy constantly reminds his family - "All or None" - when it's time to battle. Together they can take on the world, but when the family is broken it just causes unnecessary drama, and no one wins. Even with the Atlas sisters, while they are powerful, they struggle with sticking together and it causes sibling rivalries amongst them. Parents should be aware of severe foul language, violent scenes, death and some scenes that can be triggering, such as suicide.

I give Shazam: Fury of the Gods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters March 17, 2023. Remember to stay for the end credit scenes.

By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love Shazam! Fury of the Gods. It is lighthearted, super funny and thrilling. Intense battle scenes match the fury of the Gods, yet they are no match for the unity of a "family" of foster kids turned superheroes lead by Shazam (Zachary Levi).

Billy Batson (Asher Angel) is chosen to be a champion of good by Wizard (Djimon Hounsou). With Wizard's staff, Billy and his foster siblings yell the Wizard's name, "Shazam," transforming them all into adult superheroes -- each with the five powers of the gods. The magical staff is broken in half, only to be discovered years later in a museum where the daughters of Atlas, Hespera (Helen Mirren) and Kalypso (Lucy Liu) enter the museum to retrieve the staff. They are determined to make it whole, regain the superpowers and restore the realm of the gods. Once the staff is whole Hespera and Kalyspo are joined by Anthea (Rachel Zegler) to find those who possess its powers and the battle begins.

Shazam! Fury of the Gods is full of thundering action, high speed feats of flight and lighthearted good humor. Director, David F. Sandberg pulls all this together with a big cast of great actors that sends a heartwarming message of the importance of family and sticking together. Freddy (Jack Dylan Glazer) is perfectly awkward, funny and self-deprecating whenever he is around Ann (Anthea). The superhero adult Freddy (Adam Brody) has all the swagger and self-confidence of twenty guys, but it's all in vain. The scenery is amazing! A favorite of mine is the room that Superhero Pedro (D.J. Cotrona) discovers within the Rock of Eternity where books fly and the superheroes meet Steve--a smart pen! This really highlights the stunning CGI work that is used throughout the film. Buildings shapeshift; the dragon is electrifying; a tree of life grows at great speed to an immense size; cyclops and minotaurs and unicorns are in abundance; there is so much visual artistry. The visuals and action are tied together with great sound effects and an engaging musical score. The superhero costumes unify them as each one has a color that makes them unique. The battle-ready costumes of Hespera and Kalypso are fierce, right down to the shoes. While sister Anthea is softer and more goddess-like. Her look glows like her warmth, from within.

The importance of family, good or bad, is a prominent theme in Shazam! Fury of the Gods. I find this message influential and heartwarming. "All or none - that's the rule!" You should know that there is quite a lot of profanity and fighting.

I give Shazam! Fury of the Gods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theatres March 17, 2023.

By Madeleine H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I enjoyed Shazam! Fury of the Gods a lot, because of its interesting and exciting story line and because of the soundtrack which makes the movie intense. Also, it is quite amusing and entertaining.

The story is set in Philadelphia around a family of six misfit foster children and teenagers. These foster kids are actually superheroes, led by Shazam! (Zachary Levi) to save the city. The villains are the Daughters of Atlas, Hespera (Helen Mirren) and Kalyplso (Lucy Liu). Hespera wants her "god powers" back and wants everything to be just again, but Kalypso wants much more. The villains first try to take the powers from the superheroes, so Shazam! leads them to a secret lair to strategize on how to defeat the sisters.

This film is so fun and exciting and Zachary Levi makes this movie amazing! He is so funny as Shazam! because he portrays a teenager's personality so well. He also shows that a superhero can have insecurities too. Helen Mirren is great as Hespera because she plays a very menacing villain; even Shazam! says so. Finally, the young actors all give great performances, especially when they act as if they are regular teens when they are not in superhero mode. The theme of this film is to believe in yourself. There is a time when Shazam! says that he won't be able to defeat the villains and wants to give his powers back to the Wizard (Djimon Hounsou). However, the superhero ultimately prevails. We learn that even "everyday normal people," with no apparent talents, have powers. They just have to find their power within themselves, because everyone should be given a chance to prove themselves. I really like the special effects, especially the different realms, dragons and monsters. Hats off to Director David F. Sandberg. The dragon's CGI is especially nice because it looks very frightening. The last thing that I really like are the fight scenes -- they look so realistic.

The messages of this film are about believing in yourself and the importance of teamwork. The villains are too strong for anyone alone, so it's essential for the superheroes to work together. Plus, the gods are arrogant, and teamwork always beats arrogance. You should know that there is some profanity and some scary monsters.

I give Shazam! Fury of the Gods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters March 17, 2023. Remember to stay for the credits because there are two extra scenes.

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The hilarious Shazam-fam kids-turned-superheroes are back after four years of waiting! Shazam! Fury of the Gods is an entertaining and exciting sequel to the original Shazam! I like how the movie incorporates Greek mythology into the plot and explains the backstory of the powers and name of Shazam in this movie.

A few years after the first movie, we find Billy Batson (Asher Angel), aka Shazam (Zachary Levi) and his siblings still trying to balance being superheroes and teenagers. When the three angry daughters of Atlas come to seek revenge on humans, the fate of Philadelphia and the world is in their hands.

I recommend watching the first movie in this series before watching Shazam! Fury of the Gods, because it may be confusing otherwise. If you are fan of the first film, you will probably enjoy this one, but it doesn't live up to the original. This is a mediocre movie that I wasn't particularly drawn in to. I feel as though it lost sight of the values and characteristics of the first movie. Although it does explore more about the origins of Shazam, the story and character development didn't engage me as much as I hoped it would. I do like how it relies less on topics, characters and plot points from other DCEU (DC Extended Universe) movies and I do love the humor. The clever writing and comedic timing helps lighten up some of the heavy scenes and makes this movie a Shazam! movie. My favorite performances are from Zachary Levi, as Shazam and Jack Dylan Grazer, as Freddy. Zachary Levi as the alter ego of Billie Batson perfectly captures the essence of an immature, irresponsible and bad-decision-making teenager trapped in a superhero's body. Jack Dylan Grazer has the best execution of his role out of all the kids. He's genuine, sweet and witty. The chemistry between Zachary and Jack is as strong as Shazam himself, which made me enjoy the comedic relief we get from both of them even more.

The message of Shazam! Fury of the Gods is that you can find your own family. Do take note that the film has plenty of profanity and superhero violence.

I give Shazam! Fury of the Gods 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters March 17, 2023.

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

The most heartwarming superhero is back in a bigger and better second installment: Shazam! Fury of the Gods really delivers the goods... and the gods! This film is unique among the DC universe because how it gracefully combines humor with action; is completely relatable and absolutely family oriented entertainment all at once.

The "Shazamily" is back! This film takes off where the first one ended. Billy Batson (Asher Angel) has bestowed powers to his foster brothers and now, as a team, they will fight crime together. However, a great menace comes from the daughters of Atlas, a trio of sisters from the Greek mythology who are battling to take back the God-given powers activated by the word Shazam!

With a great storyline, fueled with lots of humor, themes relatable to teenagers, visually stunning action sequences, lots of heart, a dragon and even unicorns, Shazam! Fury of the Gods is a great option for movie goers like me and evokes the nostalgia of the great family / adventure / fantasy films of the 80s and 90s like Goonies, Jumanji, Flash Gordon and Superman. The special effects really work and I believed in all those creatures that this group of super heroes confronts. In this sequel, the storyline is a bit darker and actor Djiimon Hounsou reprises his role of Shazam with more screen time and funny lines. Acting wise, the Shazamily expands with the presence of Hespera (Helen Mirren), Kalypso (Lucy Liu) and Anthea (Rachel Ziegler) playing the Daughters of Atlas. Mirren brings a lot of gravitas while Liu is always fun to watch and Zegler successfully misleads the audience in her role. Directing Shazam! Fury of the Gods is David F. Sandberg, who also directed the first film and proves to understand and give life eloquently to this franchise. Zachary Levi is the perfect Shazam; not only he is a great genuine comedian, but also, embodies the hero with contagious enthusiasm. Jack Dylan Grazer really shines in this film as Freddy Freeman, a bigger role and one where he connects so well with the audience.

This film brings to attention the marvelous mission of foster families and the role they play in society. Among the messages of this film are: keep the kid inside of you while you grow up; teamwork is important; the notion of "family" is the one you make and not necessarily the one you were born with.

I give Shazam! Fury of the Gods 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Shazam! Fury of the Gods opens in theaters March 17, 2023.

Robert Caro is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American author best known for his biographies of President Lyndon B. Johnson and New York political figure Robert Moses. Robert Gottlieb is an American editor who has been editor-in-chief of Simon & Schuster, Alfred A. Knopf, and The New Yorker. Caro and Gottlieb have worked together for more than 50 years. Documentarian Lizzy Gottlieb, Robert Gottlieb's daughter, spent five years on the film and gives us an up close and very personal view of each of these amazing men, their work, their passion for their work and their working relationship.

I found this documentary so interesting because it balances entertainment, humor and education. I like that this documentary teaches us about many people that no one truly knows about, especially those from my generation. I learned so much about the power and influence Robert Moses held in New York City and the power and influence President Johnson wielded during his political career. Their impact is so deep and wide and yet so different. And this is also true about Robert Caro and Robert Gottlieb, as they contributed so much to American literature working together and also are very different. They have such a passion for what they do--they even 'go to war' over commas and semicolons. One of my favorite lines from the movie is from Robert Gottlieb, "He does the work. I do the cleanup." This movie also shows what goes on behind the scenes of writing a book. There is so much that goes into it, and it's enlightening to know what that is. Watching this documentary may even inspire you to read The Power Broker about Robert Moses or the Lyndon Johnson biography series.

The message and purpose of this documentary is to highlight the shared dedication and working relationship of these two literary men. There is some language that might be offensive to some.

I give Turn Every Page - The Adventures of Robert Caro and Robert Gottlieb 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, but especially adults. The film is playing now in select cities.

This movie is about a young boy named Peter (Noah Jupe). He lives with a retired veteran of war who saved him in battle. The veteran, unfortunately, had to leave Peter's sister, and she was blown up in an explosion. However, things take a turn when Peter sees a fortune teller who tells him his sister is still alive and to find her he must follow a magician's elephant. When Peter tries to take the elephant, the king challenges him with three impossible tasks, and then after he performs those tasks -- and only then -- he will get the elephant.

The Magician's Elephant has many notable characteristics, one of which is the animation style. Overall, the animation is flawless and very realistic. However, the clouds are one thing that doesn't look quite as realistic, even though there is a real cloud formation called Mammatus Storm Clouds. There are also many cool locations, like narrow, twisting streets, and interesting characters throughout the film. One of my favorite parts of the movie is when the veteran has Peter march around his house saying, "Fish is small. Bread is stale. Life is not a fairy tale." It is a very comedic moment. Another part that is very impressive is how they bring the story full circle, starting and ending with the fortune teller. Her main role is to tie together the whole story, which could make her the most important character of all.

The message of this film is to never give up hope because you never know what may come along to change your situation.

I give The Magician's Elephant 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It is available in select theaters on March 10, 2023 and on Netflix on March 17, 2023.

By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

The Magician's Elephant is an exceptional film that also provides a very important, valuable life lesson and it is a perfect movie to watch with family or close friends.

The story follows an orphan boy named Peter (Noah Jupe) who loses his sister at a very young age. Peter has always wanted to meet again with his sister but she has been lost since a newborn. Both of his parents passed away in a war and, ever since then, a strict and old soldier has taken care of Peter. On one special day Peter goes to the market to buy a small fish and stale bread, as that is what Peter and the soldier have for dinner every night, but instead of Peter buying dinner Peter spends his money on a fortune teller to answer his lifelong question. He asks, "Where can I find my sister?" and the fortune teller's response is "Follow the Elephant..."

I absolutely recommend watching this astounding film! The Magician's Elephant is so well-done that it made me and my whole family get very emotional. The animation of this film is wondrous; the visual effects are glorious, beautiful and realistic. The special effects are extraordinary -- I love how all the colors and scenes match the storyline so incredibly well. My favorite scene is when the magician (Benedict Wong) brings the elephant back to the animal's habitat and we realize that Peter is also helping another family get back together. This shows that Peter is not selfish at all. Peter is a kind-hearted soul who deserves to be reunited with his sister. He wants to find his sister so badly and so he obeys whatever the fortune teller tells him to do like, follow the Elephant, which he does. To get to the elephant Peter has to complete three impossible tasks given to him by the King. If Peter completes the three tasks he will earn the right to have the elephant and that will lead him to his dream. You will have to watch to see if Peter's dream comes true!

The film's message is to always care and love your family because, if you don't have them, then who do you have to love? Another message is to always have hope for whatever you do or believe.

I give The Magician's Elephant 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It is available in theaters now and releases on Netflix March 17, 2023.

This is an exciting and easy to read book about the people who settled the American west and the influence of Christianity. It contains all the necessary ingredients to make a good western story - the land owner that is in love with the beautiful school teacher, a good looking preacher who also is in love with the school teacher, cowboys, dance hall ladies and settlers. The characters are well constructed and message of forgiveness is easy to understand. It has a coming-of-age story about two teenage brothers and their struggle to become men.

The story line is easy to follow and illustrates what it must have been like for people coming from the east to settle in Wild West. There are several plot twists which makes it exciting to read. The book explains how the Homestead Act allowed settlers to claim free land in the west after the Civil War. The tension between the land owners and the settlers accurately reflects what occurred as new people moved across the west. It also incorporates the tension between the white land owners and the Black settlers. The story involves an angry land owner whose family established the town and a preacher who believes that the settlers should be able to lay claim to land under the Homestead Act. The landowner tries to get the settlers to leave by sending his son to kill the preacher, but in the end, the landowner's son is not able to do it. He tells his dad that the preacher's God is "bigger than his gun." The book explains the story of the Prodigal Son who leaves his family to become an outlaw is welcomed back to the family with open arms. The words and sentence structures are appropriate for children between the ages of 12 to 18 and it may expand their vocabulary. The book also teaches important Christian concepts.

The book's cover perfectly fits the story; it shows the main characters and it is easy to see the tension between the land owner, the preacher and the settlers. There are also interesting pictures with western themes at the beginning each chapter that hint about what the chapters are about. The names of the chapters are very interesting.

The message of forgiveness is suitable for a youth audiences.The book teaches about the Christian value of forgiveness in a way that is very easy to understand. The book may very well motivate children to read more books about the West and will definitely increase their vocabulary.

I give The Lonesome Trail 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available now at online book retailers.

Something that stands about this film is its storyline which is comedic, heartwarming and sentimental all in one. Although the film is very deep and moving, it still has a relaxed fun feeling to it. For instance all of the characters' personalities are very calming and make you feel good. I really enjoyed the strong characters; each has its own unique personality and backstory while still coming together to tell the group's story. Lastly, the message throughout the film is truly outstanding and moving. It not only teaches viewers the importance of what it really means to be a winner, but emphasizes how acceptance is extremely important. Moreover, the film highlights those with disabilities in ways that the average person might never see. It shows how they live in unison with us and that, in the end, we are all just humans with vulnerable hearts.

The message of Champions is that, in life winning doesn't always mean coming in first place, and that there are many different meanings of winning. This film does include some inappropriate language and sexual content.

I give Champions 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Champions in theaters on March 10, 2023.

By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Champions is a super funny movie, and I had a good time watching it. In this film you see a lot of inclusivity for people with disabilities and Down's Syndrome.

The story begins with Marcus (Woody Harrelson) and Alex (Kaitlin Olson) spending the night together and we see Marcus watching a basketball game. Then we find out that Marcus works with a professional basketball team as the assistant to Coach Phil Perretti (Ernie Hudson). Marcus always wants the best for the team but when he tells the coach to change the positions, the coach says no, and Marcus gets physical. What happens next? You'll have to see the film to find out.

Champions uses a lot of dark toned colors, which makes it seem sad. The actors are very strong; my favorite is Madison Tevlin for in how she plays the mean girl role as Consentino -- it makes everything way more fun. She has a way of coming off as mean but then steals your heart when you find out she always does it to help and give back to the team. We also see how united and like a family the team is. What I really like about it this film is that they raise awareness for people with disabilities. The finale is very funny, too.

The message of this film is that we are all humans going through our own things, and yet, no matter what happens, we have to stick together. There is a lot of sexual talk and some heavy kissing scenes, so I would look out for that for younger children. We also hear a lot of racial comments.

I give Champions 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Champions comes out on theaters March 10, 2023.

After officially retiring from boxing, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) has been focusing on his family and his career as a businessman. When he is greeted unexpectedly by his childhood friend Dame (Jonathan Majors), a former boxer who spent 18 years in prison, Adonis is also reminded of his tough past. Dame is insistent on getting another chance to box, enlisting Adonis for help. When Adonis realizes there is more to Dame's plan than just boxing again, he is forced to face him in a battle that is more than just a fight.

Creed III focuses on its main plot and doesn't rely on subplots to move the story forward. There are ideas introduced in the movie that could've become more significant elements such as Amara's school situation, but instead, it sticks to the primary conflict, making it easy to follow along with the storyline. The dynamic between Michael B. Jordan and Jonathan Majors creates a sense of tension within the movie and creates a much larger reaction when there are plot twists, which there are. Adonis and Bianca's (Tessa Thompson) daughter Amara (Mila Davis-Kent) is such a good addition to the storyline, and her character creates a feeling of love that is palpable. Having the entire family understanding sign language and using that to communicate brings them closer together, which translates to the audience. Creed III is Michael B. Jordan's directorial debut, and the setup of this movie conveys its message incredibly well. In the final fight scene, we see Adonis and Dame in the ring alone - symbolizing the two being together since their childhood, as brothers. Neither of them can believe their relationship has come to the point where they are here, against each other. This scene shows the vulnerability of both characters and provides both points of view. The fight choreography, the silence of the scene, the visual effects, and deeper meaning make the final fight one to remember.

The primary message of Creed III is that the only way to resolve a conflict is to face it, rather than run away from it. Even though Adonis is scared to face his past because of his guilt, he realizes that facing it is the only way to truly move on. There are some profanity and violent scenes within the movie, which explains its PG-13 rating.

Creed III gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can find Creed III in theaters on March 3, 2023. Make sure you check it out!

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

Creed III is a thrilling movie that lives up to expectations and definitely impressed me. However, due to its thrilling fight scenes and serious topics, it may be a difficult watch for younger kids.

Creed III takes place seven years after Creed II and follows Adonis Creed (Michael B Jordan) as a retired boxer and a father to his daughter Amara (Mila Davis Kent). Everything changes when a childhood friend resurfaces and brings back problems from Adonis's past, which makes Adonis question everything.

Michael B. Jordan is undoubtedly the best part of the movie. Creed III is his directorial debut and it's a great start to what I believe will be an amazing directing career. Since I hadn't seen the first two films in this series I was concerned that I wasn't going to understand the plot, but Creed III stands on its own and references the first two films without giving anything away. The movie is captivating and is beautifully shot. Jordan makes clear distinctions between good and bad with both costume design and cinematography. Kramer Morgenthau's cinematography is beautiful, especially in the fight sequences. The relationship between Adonis (Michael B. Jordan) and Damien (Jonathan Majors) is super compelling, but a little predictable. One thing that is lacking is the backstory about why Damien went to jail, which made me wonder what really happened. The movie is centered on boxing and can get a little violent. It's actually a lot more violent than I expected and there were many times when I had to look away.

Creed III promotes self-confidence and communicating with people you love. It also emphasizes not using physical violence in difficult situations, which is important in a movie that revolves around fighting. There is a lot of profanity used and many violent and graphic fight scenes. The film also covers serious topics including death, abuse and prison.

I give Creed III 5 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters March 3, 2023.

The story of the Pogues continues as the show picks up right where it left off with John B (Chase Stokes), JJ (Rudy Pankow), Kiara (Madison Bailey), Sarah (Madelyn Cline) and Cleo (Carlacia Grant) stranded on an uninhabited island they've named "Poguelandia." But once they get rescued from the island, things go south. And the search for treasure isn't nearly over yet.

Since this is the third season of Outer Banks, I highly recommend watching the previous seasons to things make sense. Fans of previous seasons will love this as there are many high stakes chases and unexpected plot twists. This season doesn't get old and keeps you very engaged. The cast of this show is extremely talented. The best performances come from Chase Stokes (John B), Charles Hanford (Big John) and Andy McQueen (Mr. Singh). Chase Stokes' character goes through a lot emotionally, especially in this season, and he makes it very believable and realistic. We hadn't seen very much of Charles Hanford as Big John in the first two seasons, so it is very entertaining and surprising to get to know him more and see what kind of person he is. Mr. Singh is a new character this season, but his character fits in with the plot super well. Andy McQueen perfectly portrays him. I can really sense his background and feel what his past is even though we never see it.

The messages of this show, similar to seasons one and two, are that family can be chosen, change happens and should be accepted, and mistakes are okay because they are a part of life. Additionally it shows how powerful love from friends is. Be aware that there is some profanity, violence and many risky things the kids do that are dangerous.

Outer Banks: Season 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out on Netflix February 23, 2023.

Set in rural Ireland and one of a dying breed of Irish-language films, The Quiet Girl is based on Claire Keegan's short story "Foster" and a riff on the famous 1952 Oscar�-award-winning John Ford film The Quiet Man. Nine-year-old Cait (Catherine Clinch) is withdrawn; she lives with her neglectful parents, sisters, and baby brother. Her tired parents send her to the Cinnsealach family (her maternal aunt and uncle). Eibhlin and Sean Cinnsealach (Carrie Crowley and Andrew Bennett) differ in how they accept Cait, but both share a sense of compassion and yet deep loss, too. The film takes its time to reveal exactly what the root of this sense of loss is and does so elegantly. Through her time with the Cinnsealachs, Cait realizes the true meaning of family, kindness and care.

Director Colm Bair�ad has achieved a commendable task by making nearly the whole film in Irish Gaelic, an endangered language that Bair�ad wants to promote globally. The cast carry the film with their understated performances, which are, like everything else in the film "quiet" and subtle. Clinch's honesty in her portrayal of the withdrawn, nuanced Cait shines through. I also have a soft spot for Carrie Crowley and Andrew Bennett. Crowley's motherly kindness is like a tight hug for viewers. Bennett's character is much colder than Crowley's toward Cait initially, but Bennett uses his prowess to transform his character from an antagonist to a flawed supporting character easily. I love the cinematography and the film as well. The way the endless fields, slurry pit, and beaten country roads were filmed seems to emanate a sense of peace and has a unique luster. The music in the film is subtle, which also adds to the "quiet" feeling of the film, as does the laconic script, which focuses more on the characters' bonds than the words coming out of their mouths, making for a deeply meaningful viewing experience.

The Quiet Girl promotes kindness, acceptance and the power of silence. In terms of parental warnings, Cait runs off a few times in the film but always returns to the Cinnsealach home.

I give The Quiet Girl 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Quiet Girl releases in theaters nationwide on February 24, 2023.

By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The Quiet Girl is a beautiful film with amazing cinematography that surely captivated me. Although the movie is beautiful, due to it plotline and language it may be a difficult watch for younger kids.

The film is set in rural Ireland in the early 1980s and follows the story of Cait (Catherine Clinch), a nine-year-old girl, who is sent away from her dysfunctional family for the summer. Her family is overcrowded and poor, which results in Cait trying to hide in plain site from those around her. When she arrives at a distant relative's house for the summer, she thrives under their car and, overtime discovers one painful truth, which may change everything.

The Quiet Girl is, by far, one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. I commend the director, Colm Bair�ad, for showcasing the dazzling scenery of Ireland. This film is mainly spoken in Gaelic and I had to rely on the subtitles to understand the plot, which made it a little hard to connect with at times. Catherine Clinch gives an amazing and heart-moving performance, and is definitely the highlight of the film. The best parts are definitely the parts with Sean (Andrew Bennett), Cait's foster father, and Cait which are heartwarming and a contrast to Cait's relationship with her father. The relationship takes longer to develop than Cait's relationship with her stepmother and thus comes across as more meaningful. The movie is a bit slow at times, but still captured me.

The Quiet Girl shows the importance of love and warmth from others, in adults and especially in kids. You should know that the film covers many serious topics such as abuse and death, which make it unsuitable for younger audiences.

I give The Quiet Girl 3 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters February 24, 2023.

Based on the short story, "Ernest," by Geoff Manaugh, this film follows the Presley family as they embark on a mission to find a new home. The home they hope to make lifelong memories in, is haunted by a ghost named Ernest who quickly comes to be known as nothing other than misunderstood. Since Ernest has no recollection of how or why he died, his soul is unable to fully leave earth. Eventually, the youngest child of the Presley family, Kevin, makes it his life mission to find this out and with that, the family gains fame.

My favorite character is most-definitely Ernest (David Harbour). Wonderful performance! Considering that David Harbour had zero previous experience with a character such as Ernest, he portrays the role magnificently. He is able to gain pity from the viewers, which is extremely rare for ghosts in films. Ernest's character development evolves perfectly, allowing viewers to grasp the moments of importance responsible for changing Ernest's perspective on life. It allows us to think of Ernest as a misunderstood, confused and helpless soul rather than an angry and malicious ghost. The spectrum of emotions that Ernest experiences do not feel rushed, but are perfectly timed out and displayed. My favorite aspect of this film is how it differs from previous adventure or horror-based films. In most cases, the threat (Ernest) will not associate with the victims - the Presley Family -- in any way other than causing them harm. However, We Have a Ghost offers a fresh dynamic of friendship and cooperation, allowing viewers to not get stuck in the same thriller film cycle. Instead of expecting certain scenes or character motives to take place, I loved seeing something fresh in this film genre. I commend Director Christopher Landon for incorporating new and unexpected ideas to this film.

This film's message is to appreciate, value and love the people in your life. Appreciate the littlest moments, because at any given time, those moments can turn into only memories --live life to the very fullest.

The storyline follows a man/superhero named Scott Lang (Paul Rudd), whose daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton) creates a device that can send messages to the Quantum Realm. After a signal is sent a portal appears, and they all get sucked in -- Scott and Cassie along with Hank Pym (Michael Douglass), Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer). They explore the Quantum Realm and try to find a way out.

I really enjoyed this film. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is really amazing, particularly since I am a huge MCU / Marvel fan. One thing that caught my attention is the CGI which is very realistic. The sets, the aliens, and even the Quantum ships all look so real. Another thing that really pops out is the acting, which is amazing. For instance, when one of them gets hurt it looks real, because the actors bring that to life. When someone uses their powers that also looks very realistic. For example, when Kang does his energy blast it looks so real. Also, when Scott and Cassie transform and change sizes throughout the movie that is excellent. The humorous dialogue really is one of the best parts. I particularly enjoyed the part when Scott doesn't know what the Quantum people are saying; his reaction is hilarious. I laughed almost throughout the whole film. Another thing I really like is the cinematography. I just love how when something explodes the camera shakes along with it; that made me feel as if I was there in the scene.

The film's lesson is an inspiring reminder that, just because something isn't happening to you, it doesn't mean it's not happening. I relate to this because I find that people will ignore your problems, but when the same thing happens to them they start to understand how you felt. Be aware that it does contain some gore, weaponry and foul language.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases available in theaters February 19, 2023. Be sure to check it out.

By Gavin S. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania manages to clench the undying thirst for the unknown within the Marvel Cinematic Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Universe, yet introduces so much that it doesn't really introduce anything at all. While being carried on the back of a strong performance by Jonathan Majors, Ant-Man: Quantumania is strictly a setup film, which is somewhat pointless, because it sets up what Marvel fans already know. Regardless of leaving little to no impact, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's visuals are where it shines, literally and figuratively. In a film that takes place almost entirely in a CGI world, Marvel creates its own Star Wars and perfects every minute computer generated detail.

Picking up after the events of Avengers: Endgame, with the entire world rehabilitating, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania kicks off (or flies off, because... ants). The audience sees the new luxurious life of Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) - Hero, father and self-proclaimed "author." The story quickly introduces the new struggle Scott has for raising his newly teenage daughter, Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton). When Cassie reveals she has been tampering with Quantum Realm technology, it's too late. The whole Ant-Man crew gets shrunken down into the Quantum Realm (a subatomic world beneath Earth). The rest of the story follows the whole family venturing to find a way out of the realm, while Kang the Conqueror hunts them relentlessly.

For the past couple years, Marvel has had major controversy regarding their CGI and VFX artists (mainly with their Disney+ shows). At least for Ant-Man: Quantumania, they seem to be back on track, or starting to be. The images are impeccable and matched with a strong score; the auditory and visual experience is automatically enhanced. IMAX is the correct way to view the film. Despite the irrelevant plot, Jonathan Majors conquers the show. He emphasizes the true power of Kang, with a blood-curdling scream that'll make sure he is thought about well after the credits roll. Although, the film fails to utilize him to the extent they could have, leaving the audience wanting more, and not in a positive way.

Like all the other films put through the Marvel formula, this film does not disappoint with its fair share of comedy, foul language and violence. When dealing with a villain known for annihilating entire worlds and timelines, of course the audience will see a lot more than a simple punch thrown on the big screen. In terms of gore however, it does not go there to a large extent. Underneath the antics, the story pairs with a large theme of family, and teaches the moral that love of all kinds always perseveres.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can find Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania in theatres on February 17, 2023. Make sure to check it out!

By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania isn't my favorite Marvel movie ever. It seems like it has way too much CGI and, partially due to that, is super unrealistic. Plus, this film is not as entertaining as the previous ones were. I feel like Marvel sort of lost the spark they had.

The story starts off at a new place and we meet a new character. Then we see Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and we see him back with his partner Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) and his daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton). His daughter decides to send out a message to the Quantum Realm. It is honestly really cool how the rest of the film plays out.

I am disappointed in this film and feel that Marvel has changed a lot, perhaps due to Disney's influence. I could definitely see the amount of green screen they used in this film. For example I could see a lot of different places all at once, but the over-saturated visuals make it unflattering. Paul Rudd really portrays Ant-man quite well; he gives life to Ant-Man, which he made a name for. What really made me love this character is how he expresses himself and how much he made me laugh. Also, Evangeline Lilly's portrayal of the Wasp is outstanding; she really portrays Cassie's mom as someone trying her best to be there for her daughter. Plus, the two of them have a really good on-camera relationship - they really seem to have fun and show how good their connection is. Last, the script seems to lack overall structure; I couldn't really understand it. It seems almost childish and, at the same time, it's funny for both kids and adults. It seems to have lost its edge as a Marvel movie in becoming somewhat of a Disney mystical Princess movie.

The film's message is that your word is one of the most important things you have as a human and you can't break it. Be aware that there is some profanity and a lot of physical violence in this film.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 3 out of 5 stars and recommend for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters February 17, 2023.

By Miguel C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is the new raging Marvel movie! It's packed with action and comedy that I loved! This film is captivating and visually incredible.

This storyline follows the journey of Scott, also known as Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), and his daughter Cassandra (Kathryn Newton) who end up in the Quantum Realm with a few other people. As Cassie gains powers, she begins to experiment with them. The group is transported to the Quantum Realm. It's up to them to get out safely with the many challenging obstacles they have ahead.

This film is every Marvel fan's dream. The main characters are Scott and Cassie Lang, accompanied by Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly), Hank (Michael Douglas), Janet (Michelle Pfeiffer) and Kang (Jonathan Majors). These actors portray so much emotion throughout the film, plus they deliver their lines with humor, and I definitely found myself laughing while watching the film. The special effects are phenomenal and illustrate the Quantum Realm in such an interesting way. My favorite part is when the group drinks the special potion that makes them understand the foreign languages. By doing that, the humans and creatures from the Quantum Realm can converse and get a hint about the motives of the other group. It's a clever idea. Of course, I can't forget the costumes. The Ant-Man and Wasp suits, as well as Cassie's, look awesome, and they are a repeat from the previous Ant-Man movies. I do recommend watching the first two Ant-Man movies in order to understand the backstory, but it isn't completely necessary.

The film's message is that you should always put family first, because you are stronger together. The film has a heartfelt story about how family means everything and they will always be there for you. Cassie and Scott care about each other so much that they would sacrifice themselves to keep the other safe. There is some slight profanity, but nothing too inappropriate. There is a lot of action and blood, which may be disturbing for younger viewers.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on February 17, 2023. Come and join us in the Quantum Realm!

By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The highly "ant-ticipated" three-quel to the Ant-Man franchise, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, is here! Not only does this movie deliver another thrilling Ant-Man story, it also serves as a building block for the future of the MCU. This is a "can't miss" movie for Marvel fans, new and old.

In Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, Scott Lang, aka Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton), Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly), Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer) find themselves trapped in the Quantum Realm. And much to their surprise, it's full of life. But their arrival brings a lot of unwanted attention, especially from the terrible and tyrannical Kang the Conqueror (Jonathan Majors). The fate of the multiverse is in their hands, so what will they do?

Since this is the third movie in the franchise, I highly recommend watching the first two Ant-Man movies. As the first movie of Marvels Phase 5, it has a lot to live up to, and it does. Unlike the Thor movies - which went from more serious to more humorous - this franchise does the opposite. The Ant-Man squad face arguable the most powerful villain in the MCU, Kang the Conqueror, and this film takes a darker turn. However, thanks to clever writing and Paul Rudd's delivery, it still has the ability to deliver moments of humor in just the right times and the right ways. As Scott Lang, Paul plays the goofy, funny and slightly irresponsible father we all want; and as Ant-Man, he's our favorite brave and lovable pint-sized hero. David Dastmalchian always contributes to the humor as Kurt, but in this installment, he actually plays a new character, Veb. Although Veb and Kurt are very different, they are both absolutely hilarious. Kathryn Newton steps in as Cassie Lang in this movie. We really get a deeper dive into Cassie's character and what she stands for - I loved every second of it. My favorite character is the caf� owner (Ruben Rabasa), because he has one of the funniest lines in the film. Jonathan Majors, as Kang, is super powerful and convinces the audience of his evil nature so well that you really hate him throughout the film. Be sure to stay until the end for some very important end-credit scenes.

The message of this movie is that family is everything. Be aware that there is violence and drinking.

I give Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Marvel and Ant-Man fans will also enjoy this movie. Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania releases in theaters on February 17, 2023.

Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows Lunella Lafayette (Diamond White), 13-year-old genius, after she accidentally brings a dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore) to her home in present-day New York City via a self-made portal. With the dinosaur's help, they protect the Lower East side from harm, and become known as "Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur."

This show is based on the hit comic books from Marvel. I love how each episode feels like a mini movie. There's so much attention to detail and each episode has a very focused storyline. This series isn't as intense or violent as other Marvel shows and films, so it is much more suitable for younger audiences. Even though Lunella is a super genius and has a pet dinosaur, the show is incredibly relatable. It's full of diverse characters, as well as a diverse cast and crew, and it highlights realistic things that would and could happen to a teenager living in New York City. The animation is dazzling. All of the colors pop and the designs for the characters and backgrounds are so vibrant. It looks like it's straight out of a comic book! I absolutely love the intro song, written and produced by Raphael Saadiq, and performed by Diamond White. It's so catchy and bubbly, and it really fits the vibe of the show. I also like the performances of Lunella and her family. Lunella is voiced by Diamond White, and she truly sounds just like a normal teenage girl. She, along with her family, are so hilarious as their characters have good comedic chemistry. My favorite character is Devil Dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore) because, even though he's a 10-ton dinosaur, he's so cute and loving towards Lunella.

The messages of this show are to use your gifts to help the world, and to help those who can't help themselves.

give Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The first epis

ode of this show releases on the Disney Channel February 10, 2023 and will release on Disney+ shortly after.

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur are ready to fight crime in the new animated series: Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur! Based on the comic book of the same name, this show highlights the world of S.T.E.M. to young children and inspires learning more about it. Fans of the original comic book and other Marvel fans will love the new series as well.

Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette (Diamond White), who one day--while helping bring power back to her town--accidentally makes a time portal and spawns a ten-ton red T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore), into present-day New York City. The duo works together on missions to protect the city's Lower East Side from danger.

I love how well the series connects to the actual comic book featuring the main characters Lunella and Devil Dinosaur. From the animation, the costumes, to the gadgets, everything relates to the original comic story. My favorite part of the series is when Lunella is fighting multiple villains in the episode. During that time she is constantly asked what her hero name is and she never is able to give an answer. That scene adds humor to the show and gives a bit of backstory on the title. It's incredible how Marvel is now incorporating a kids' animated series to the MCU. It's a great addition! The characters are extremely relatable in this series. Great detail is given to character development and design, even down to Lunella's goggles. I love the way different shapes appear in them based on what she's saying or on her emotions. This show is highly creative.

This series highlights the importance of friendship, acceptance, being yourself and using your strengths to do something great. In the series, even though the Devil Dinosaur randomly shows up and is a different species, Lunella is able to bond and become friends with it. She also gets teased because she is extremely intelligent. When she accepts her gifts and becomes Moon Girl, she is then able to be herself and use her tech-savvy talents to help save her community.

I give this series 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 5-12, plus adults. You can watch the premiere of Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur on Disney Channel on February 10, 2023, and on Disney+ starting February 15, 2023.

Snow White and the Fairytale Fun Force is about the first adventures of the Starship Fairy Dust. The Fairytale Fun Force is a group of fictional characters that includes Snow White, King Arthur, Robin Hood, Cupid, Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, Pinocchio, Little Red Riding Hood, Cheshire Cat, Hatter and more. These fictional characters work together to investigate strange situations such as the disappearance of Cupid's magical bow, the Mad Hatter's tea set and the Cheshire Cat's body. The characters travel together in a spaceship named Starship Fairy Dust with Snow White as their captain.

The graphics are very vibrant, colorful and neat. Each scene has unique colorful backgrounds with floating objects that catch the audience's attention. For example, Cupid's scene has white and pink clouds with floating red hearts and confetti. Every scene has confetti and floating objects except the Starship scenes. The characters are illustrated as little children with heads bigger than their bodies. They are not typical fairytale characters like we are used to seeing in storybooks or movies. The voiceovers suit each character. Snow White looks and sounds tough; King Arthur looks smart and sounds slick; Pinocchio looks like a laid-back kid with a relaxed voice; Robin Hood sounds and acts like a smart teenager. My favorite scene is when Snow White visits Cupid to help him resolve the disappearance of his magic bow. She uses a little black humor by advising Cupid to make sure not to sit on a white couch.

This program teaches the audience fun facts about science, different languages, fruits or animals. For example, Easter Bunny explains to Pinocchio that rabbits' ears are long to help rabbits control their body temperature.

I give Snow White and the Fairytale Fun Force 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases on DVD and Digital Media February 14, 2023.

By Ethan P., KIDS FIRST!, Age 14

If you're looking for a movie to entertain your little kids then Snow White and The Fairy Tale Fun Force is a great film for just that! It has lots of adventures and fun animated characters.

Snow White and The Fairy Tale Fun Force follows Snow White, a sassy and adventurous princess. When her best friend, Dorothy (Dailyn Brunck), is in trouble she assembles The Fairy Tale Fun Force, a group of fairytale characters who are ready to do anything to save Dorothy. They go on many adventures and see many different characters on their mission.

My favorite thing about this movie is all the characters. They're the normal fairytale characters that we all know and love, but each one has a little twist. Also, they're all tiny and their animation is so adorable. I love the animation in this movie because the characters are so unique. They all have their own special features that make them different. Arthur (Simon Hill) is my favorite character because he's so cute and sweet. His voice is really high and squeaky and he's always trying to help out. Another thing I enjoy about this film is that all of the characters get their own part of the movie when they go to different lands to find out what happened; not only do we get to see every character together, but we get to see them by themselves as well. My favorite scene is when Arthur visits the Cheshire Cat, because he's lost his body and to find it the cat starts chanting. Arthur is so confused that eventually he just starts chanting along with the cat.

The message of Snow White and The Fairy Tale Fun Force is that friendship is stronger than anything. Snow White will do anything to save her best friend and it's because she really cares about her.

I give Snow White and The Fairy Tale Fun Force 3.5 stars out of 5 and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It releases on Digital and Blu-Ray February 14, 2023.

The story follows four best friends, Lou (Lily Tomlin), Trish (Jane Fonda), Betty (Sally Field) and Maura (Rita Moreno) who, for 16 straight years, loyally followed Tom Brady's career. After watching the Patriots' 2017 AFC Playoff win, Lou asks her friends to join her for an unforgettable adventure - "Let's go to the Super Bowl LI."

The movie is hilarious with scenes of dancing, funny sports superstitions and includes live action and original sound from the Super Bowl LI experience. Several scenes include live audio of player commentary on the field that you've likely never heard before. One of my favorite scenes is when Lou finally has the chance to talk to Tom Brady in an emotional speech, which inspires us to never give up. The game brings us back to the greatest comeback, both in Patriots history, and in Tom Brady's incredible sports career. The love of football connects us as Americans and the true story of four loyal women, who followed Tom's career for 16 years to finally make it to the Super Bowl, is inspiring for us all - even if you're not a Tom Brady fan. To see Lou, Trish, Betty and Maura having a great time attending exclusive parties, dancing with Gugu's (Billy Porter) dance crew, eating in Guy Fieri's spicy hot wing contest and gambling with high rollers really brings one hilarious scene to another. This film shows that both your age and life challenges can't stop you if you believe you've still got it. I can't wait to have the chance to go to a Super Bowl myself someday with my best friends and family. What an adventure.

The message of the movie is about the importance of friendship and courage to overcome obstacles and embrace the unknown together. The film reminds us to trust in our loved ones; never let fear stop us; and live life to the fullest.

I give 80 For Brady 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in theaters beginning February 3, 2023.

By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

80 for Brady is a hilarious movie. It has amazing acting and an amazing cast. Funny moments are around every corner with its hysterical plot.

The storyline follows four women all around age 80 who all idolize legendary football quarterback, Tom Brady. After Lou (Lily Tomlin) wins tickets to the 2017 Super Bowl, the girls are off on a crazy trip to Houston. Along with her best friends Betty (Sally Field), Trish (Jane Fonda) and Maura (Rita Moreno) they fly to Houston to watch their favorite team, the Patriots, on the trip of their lives. Nothing goes as planned and when Betty loses the tickets during a hot wings contest, the girls don't know how they'll ever make it into the game.

Along with an all-star cast, this movie has hilarious jokes throughout. All of the shenanigans the girls get into are unbelievably crazy and insanely fun to watch. I love when Betty signs up for Guy Fieri's hot wings contest because she ends up winning and, after it's over, she tells them that her taste buds aren't very good so she can barely taste anything. The scenes from the Super Bowl are amazingly. Everything seems so real, like you're actually there watching it. My favorite character is Betty because she's so sweet and wants to do something exciting for once in her life. The funniest scene is when Maura is kind of out of it and stumbles into a poker game and wins lots of money thinking she can buy more tickets after Betty loses them, but after she cashes out she finds out it was a charity game.

The message of 80 for Brady is that you're never too old to have fun. These women are all over 75 and think they're destined for a life of sitting at home until this one great adventure. Parents should know that there are a couple of things to be wary of. They accidentally take some drugs at a party and there's some profanity.

I give 80 for Brady 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It releases in theaters February 3, 2023.

By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

The film, 80 for Brady, directed by Kyle Marvin, is amusing, engaging and fresh. This film equally balances the elements of comedy and drama while still maintaining real life situations and grounded characters. Not only does this film include familiar celebrities, such as actress Rita Moreno, this film is produced by 7-time Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady.

The story follows best friends in their 80's, Trish (Jane Fonda), Betty (Sally Field), Moura (Rita Moreno) and Lou (Lily Tomlin) as their yearly tradition of watching the Super Bowl finally arrives. They decide to attend it live this time, encouraged by the quarterback of the friend group, Lou, who is dead set on this adventure after discovering there's a possibility of her cancer returning. Throughout her time battling chemo, Lou gains the strength and courage to fight it by following the resilient and brave story of Tom Brady--watching his games weekly becomes something for her to look forward to, a sentimental tradition. So whether it means breaking out of retirement homes or joining a spicy wings contest, these four ladies are destined to step foot inside that stadium, no matter what obstacles are in their way.

My favorite character is Betty, who evolves from the beginning to end in an engaging way. Betty is known as the problem solver, not comfortable with confrontation and constantly changing her own wants and needs to benefit others, especially her husband. She doesn't know what it is like to make decisions without needing validation. Their goal to attend the Super Bowl is finally Betty's opportunity to experience that freedom and delivers many hilarious moments. Going from editing essays at home to partying all night long with college students has to be the greatest character development! My favorite aspect of 80 for Brady is how scenes jump from the perspective of Lou to that of Tom Brady. At times of difficulty, Lou often looks at her Tom Brady bobble head figurine, or speaks to herself as if she asking Tom questions about her dilemma. The perspective then switches to Tom expressing his opinion on how to help the situation. Throughout the film, Tom and Lou are not aware of each other until the end, but the instant cuts from Tom to Lou immerse viewers in their conversations.

This film provides a significant message: It is never too late to discover the wonders and experiences of life you may have missed. Happiness has no age limit--it is never too late to discover new interests and act on them.

I give 80 for Brady 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters February 3, 2023. Enjoy!

By Nathalia J., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

80 for Brady is a fun comedy that proves that age is just a number and will be a fun watch for all ages. 80 for Brady is not as innocent as it appears to be and although it is a bit slow at the beginning, once it picks up, it becomes a film that will surely make viewers smile.

80 for Brady follows four senior women: Lou (Lily Tomlin), Betty (Sally Field), Trish (Jane Fonda) and Maura (Rita Moreno). The women decide to go to the Super Bowl to support their hero, Tom Brady (Tom Brady) and to have a last hurrah before it's "too late." The trip to the Super Bowl is not as easy as expected and they soon realize that this trip means more to Lou than they originally thought. Through teamwork and determination, the group makes it a trip of a lifetime.

80 for Brady is a super fun film and is really funny from start to end. The pace is a little slow at the beginning, before they go to the Super Bowl, but really picks up once they leave the airport. All four actresses shine in this film, but Tomlin really stands out. Although she does not have as many comedic scenes as some of the others, she feels like the heart of the movie and most of the sentimental parts come from her character. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of celebrity cameos throughout the film, such as Rob Gronkowski and Guy Fieri; they are a fun addition. My favorite part of the movie is the party scene, due to all the different characters going off on their own and really shining in their own respective scenes. The movie is based on the real-life story from four senior female Patriot fans and, learning about that at the end of the movie, makes the entire story more genuine, authentic and heartwarming.

The film promotes friendship and being there for your friends - also, never giving up on your dreams. You should know that there are some scenes showing drug use and some profanity, plus it addresses some topics such as cancer, death, and growing old, which may be heavy for some viewers.

I give 80 for Brady 4 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases February 3, 2023 in theaters.

A used smart phone sends a boy, Amin, in rural Iran on an unexpected journey of reconnecting an estranged couple.

Well-constructed, with good camera work, audio and casting. This very contemporary storyline is one that could take place pretty much anywhere in the world today, as it shows how smart phones have affected people globally. This film makes me very sad, by how the young boy, Amin, is lied to by an older man when he gifts him with a smart phone. Amin slowly begins to figure out that the phone was stolen, but he loves his phone and is obsessed with taking pictures with it. He begins to do his math homework on his phone until a text message appears that solidifies his suspicion about the phone's origin. Amin finally confronts his friend about the phone's origin and ends up in a tricky situation as he tries to return the phone at last. The cinematography is quite beautiful, especially the landscape shots. Mohammad Amin Mohammadi, who plays Amin, steals the show. He plays the young boy in a very understated, but strong way. The dialogue is in Persian with English subtitles, which are not always accurately spelled.

The storyline follows three pre-teen girls, Daphne, Ivy, and Hanna, who bond at summer camp through helping Daphne figure out how to deal with her first period. The film is very tasteful for such an awkward but normal subject. I really like how supportive and understanding the girls are towards each other. These are embarrassing moments for any girl and this story is told in a gentle and kind way. The camerawork is great with lots of close-ups of the girls discussing Daphne's situation, which makes the viewer feel part of the group in an intimate and friendly way. The girls are wearing camp gear which suits the storyline and time period. The film takes place inside the camp cabins and that perfectly works. There is some animation in a few scenes which adds to the story. My favorite example is the demonization of the tampon. The characters, Daphne (Soleil Adele), Ivy (Helena Goodrich) and Hanna (Jyla Price) all are played with humor and kindness; there is a great deal of realism in the girls' awkwardness and the situation. Their friendship is very believable and I enjoyed their warmth and humor. Director and Writer Anastacia Puertas brings a sense of nostalgia, humor and kindness to this awkward part of growing up. My favorite part is when Ivy shares her "Welcome to the Club" box that her mom prepared for just such an occasion. She has older sisters so she is not embarrassed about the subject and that box adds humor to the situation.

The New Zealand based writer, director, producer and star of this film is nine years old himself and deserves credit for an exceptionally well made film. The storyline is simple and appropriate for young ones seeking to discover themselves. The cinematography is simple and easy, which gives it the sense of discovery. I particularly love his use of close-ups, stop motion, shadows and a bit of claymation. Also, the animated words are a cool addition. I should add that some shots are out of focus and some are a bit shaky, but it doesn't detract from the overall film. The protagonist, Maxwell William, showcases great enthusiasm for having a natural superpower. I was drawn to it from the beginning simply because we are left to our imagination to determine what might be the power that Maxwell is excited about. If you are looking for a lovely film made by an elementary age student, with a great message, look no further, you have found it here!

The storyline follows a teacher and her students who are learning poems, intonations and songs from the Chinese opera. Competition is encouraged and therefore inspires a bit of jealousy among students, leading to some bullying and hurt feelings. The story is very gentle by American bullying standards and viewers will be sympathetic to all of the characters!

One thing that I find a little disturbing (as a teacher myself) is the way that the teacher always points out who was 'the best' singer. This aggravates jealousy, which in turn leads to bad behavior by some of the less advanced children. The cinematography shows the beautiful landscapes of the Chinese countryside, and close-ups of the faces of all of the characters. It is undramatic, but a supportive part of the production. The costumes are in alignment with the genre of the film. Kids wear uniforms and opera costumes while the teacher is beautifully clad in flowing gowns appropriate for a Chinese artist. The sets suit the story, both indoors and outdoors. The classroom is a bit different than American classes today, and I enjoyed looking at how they are different. The background music is mostly Western classical music underscores. The source music is Chinese opera and poetry, using the Arhu (2 stringed instrument) and gongs. The sound mix is not great as the underscore music sometimes fades out as the scene ends, rather than threading the images together. The music enhances the film's story. I was unable to read the actors names in the credits as they are written with Chinese calligraphy, but the star character is the teacher, Ms. Qingmu who is a kind and dedicated supporter of the arts. Douya is a farm-girl who comes to the city to study opera and excels far beyond her regional status. All of the children show their emotions and move the story forward. The production is cohesive and beautifully portrayed due to contributors at all levels. My favorite part of the film is when the children are singing or reciting poems to each other. Children singing is the sweetest sound on earth, regardless of the language and whether one understands what is being said.

Giulia e il Capoposto, is based on a true story about a young girl who recently lost her father and she wishes to send something to her dad in Heaven, but it gets stuck in a tree. Thanks to the intervention of the fire chief, she is able to make her wish come true.

I love Giulia (Tal�a Savoldo) because she is so sweet and I love that she wants to "keep in touch" with her father even after he has passed. I also love the commander in guard (Andrea Comini), because he is nice enough to help Giulia with her letter. All the actors are really excellent and make use of gestures and facial expressions, which is important, since the majority of the film is silent. The camera work is quite good. I love the angles they use on Giulia's close-ups as they really catch her worried looks. I love the costumes as they capture the era the film takes place in. My favorite scene is when the commander in guard rescues the balloon and the note and gives it to Giulia; he shows so much kindness and care for her. I feel this film will definitely capture the audience's attention and will warm their hearts. The dialogue is in Italian with English subtitles.

Well produced - good camerawork and good audio -- fun background music. As the director points out, there are few coming-of-age films about older women. This is a fun comedy starring a 78-year-old woman who pursues her granddaughter on her mobility scooter and cane. I love her tenacity and love how both granddaughters connect with her in their own separate ways. I love how Nana goes to take care of Rosie even though it means climbing a mountain of stairs.

It's the summer of 2004. Three boys play ball in a parking lot. Two brothers interfere with the game. One ball. Well produced with great camera work, especially in terms of following the movement of the boys and the ball. Good audio recording also. The story takes place in the early 2000's showing the camaraderie of a group of young boys in a town in Portugal as their relationship is tested due to who owns the soccer ball. Filmmakers Pedro Augusto Almeida and Jorge Dias draw from their own real life experiences to bring us a "blast from the past" in this short film. The setting is authentic as we watch these boys move about throughout their neighborhood, seeking to pursue the game they love so well. Using non actors is a smart way to maintain its authenticity and it works well here. The ending speaks volumes for the kindness of the era.

A boy tries to attract a girl, who he assumes is deaf. This high school student film gives us a glimpse into the life of a student in China. The camera work is quite good; it primarily uses shots of the two kids together or separately, with some close-ups of the Rubik's cube or the boy's phone tossed in. The background music is rather inconsequential. The film is entirely non-narrative, as the boy makes a presumption that the girl is deaf, and they write notes back and forth. Then, he gets a message that the "deaf girl" has left and, well, story over.

A nine-year-old girl overcomes her fear of being bullied at school after confronting a mythical cougar in the woods of Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. What a wonderful, coming-of-age short film. Great production values, with excellent camera work and audio. Superb casting. Sienna Garrison who plays Sienna and Oliver Mawhinney, who plays Oliver are both outstanding. The topic of bullying is so prevalent these days with kids and the context of Sienna overcoming her fears, with the help of her new friend, Oliver is perfect. The setting of Qualicum Bay is beautiful and a great location for this adventure. Kudos to Jim Garrison for creating such a meaningful short film. It's a perfect fit for KIDS FIRST! Film Festivals.

The film's message is about facing your fears. There is a scene of cutting into a fish which shows blood oozing. Nothing scary but it's just a heads up for parents of queasy kids.

Stage Presents is a documentary that interviews children who participated in Seussical Junior in 2012, and interviewing them once again 10 years later.

I like that the storyline continues a decade later. It emphasizes the Seussical participants' perspective and how it developed over time. We hear their opinions about theater and how it changed their lives. The quality of the camerawork is suitable for exhibition, despite it being a bit shaky at times - however, that adds to the effect of being in a chaotic theater. The vibrant costumes suit the story because they provide an energetic atmosphere to the musical. Seussical costumes are typically colorful. The film is primarily shot at the theater where the musical was performed. It suits the story by making the audience feel as if they were in the theater with the subjects. The music the kids perform adds to the story by showing us how much fun they were having and how it helped them come out of their shell. The subjects start off as little kids performing in Seussical Junior. 10 years later, they revisit their participation and describe how it changed their lives.

The director and producer of this film, Greg Jeschke, is remarkable. He really helps portray the message these kids are trying to bring to the world. My favorite part is how a decade later, the kids who were a part of the musical continue to share their love for theater. To me, it hits close to home because I also have a passion for theater. The older footage is lower quality and more pixelated than the current footage. Other than that, it's terrific and the older footage doesn't detract from the storyline.

The film's message is to pursue your passions and create your own opportunities. We are reminded to live our lives to the best. After watching this film, young kids may definitely be motivated to follow their dreams.

Nicely produced with excellent camera work, audio and casting. Louis Show, who plays the young protagonist, Rupert Bell, really climbs into his role and you resonate with his situation. Elsa Annushka, as Clarabella, has a kind and quiet presence, beginning when she brings a bandage to patch up Rubert's scraped knee. The background music lends an element of suspense and drive as Rupert discovers the misaddressed letter and decides to track down its proper recipient. I love the costuming, especially Rupert's pilot's hat, which shows us his passion for flying - that, plus the scene where he glances up at an airplane in the sky above. When Clarabella shows the photograph of herself and an airplane, Rupert's reaction is adorable and a new friendship begins to unfold.

Don't Hang Up is a short thriller film about a teenage girl who is home alone and being taunted by a caller who is on a mission to sell her an extended warranty for her car.

The story has thriller potential - the scenes are set up perfectly for a thriller, yet the thrill has a plot twist by a humorous antagonist. The cinematography is pretty good, although it has a few hiccups with some blurry images and lighting issues. The lighting is dim and there are shadows that sometimes block the protagonist's face (2:05 when she goes to the door). The music adds to the thriller/humorous twist, especially at the end, which sounds like a cartoon. Director Jordyn Diew also plays the main character in this film, which is a huge undertaking. My favorite part is the anticipation of what is going to occur following the knock on the door, the noise in the closet, and a quick glimpse of a masked person in the window. This is a fun twist on what we think originally will be a thriller.

The storyline follows a young boy from Kerala traveling to Dubai to spend the summer vacation with his father, who works there. It humorously approaches the reality that sometimes we have to adjust our expectations.

The story is one that I wish had been made a long time ago - it's a special story that needs to be told. Some of my best friends have parents who work in foreign countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE and have to live there, and their lives mirror, to a degree, that of Momo's. I love how the plot keeps you guessing as to what will happen next, and it allows ample room for each character to develop. The production quality is superb. The camerawork is great! Coverage is consistent throughout the film, and I especially love the scenes in Momo's town in Kerala and during his escapade with his neighbor. The closeup shots of Momo truly draw out the emotion on the young actor's face. The film was shot in Kerala, in southern India, and in Dubai. I love the verdant scenery in Kerala and how it contrasts with the desert in the UAE. The sets certainly suit the story. The background music does not necessarily stand out, except in some scenes, such as when Momo sees his father off on the bus to the worksite, where it deepens the emotions and enhances the development of the story. Aneesh Menon as Momo's father Muthutty is a bit of an enigmatic figure. I'm unsure as to whether that was intended or not; perhaps his character needs a bit more time to develop. One thing that is odd is that his kids refer to him by his given name. Anu Sithara as Momo's mother is one of my favorite characters. She's strong and independent, but also showcases superb motherly instinct, and Sithara does justice to the role. Arthrey Biju as Momo steals the show though, with his dynamic performance and superb wit and comic timing. The director Ameen Aslam shines in this production -- it's not as simple a concept as it appears, including filming in two countries, but it is executed beautifully thanks to Aslam's work. The writing by Ashif Kakkodi is also spectacular and truly helps tie the film together. The character of Momo is my favorite part of the film -- he's every kid rolled into one. Despite having boundless energy during the day, he shuts off completely after 7pm. He's raucously funny but also deeply sensitive. And he has ambitions, not just for himself, but for his whole family...even if it is sometimes influenced by a desire to brag to his friends.

In 2004, Yeerxiati, a 9-year-old boy who lost his mother as a child, lives with his grandparents in the deep mountain pastures in Northern Xinjiang. The boy's lamb also lost its mother and has been taken care of by the little boy. One day, Yeerxiati's father comes to the grassland to pick up his son to study in the city. The little boy arrives in the city and has difficulties adapting to urban life, plus he misses the lamb, which often appears in his dreams. After a while, Yeerxiati's grandfather dies, and his grandmother moves to the city to join him and his father. Yeerxiati gradually realizes that his life is changing.

Beautifully shot with great landscape views of Northern Xinjiang. We don't have much time to establish Yeerxiati's life in the mountains, as very soon after the film starts his father comes to get him. We do see a lot of mischievous behavior by the school children at Yeerxiati's new school and his reaction to them. He struggles with everything in the city, including what appears to be his father's new wife. When Yeerxianti's grandfather passes, he goes to the mountains with his dad to clear out his home and realizes that his life will never be the same. But, we see how he is adjusting to life in the city, even excelling at school. I smiled when his class applauds at his recitation at the end.

The story follows shy book lover, Jane, who is unexpectedly tasked with saving her beloved library from closure, and help arrives in a surprising way.

What a cool and unexpected film this is and it is so well produced with great camera work and audio recording. I really love the actors' performances, especially Alex Stewart who leads as Jane. But Adam Kurton, Tim McGill, Naomi Richards, and the rest of cast are equally strong. Most importantly, it's a musical, with full out choreographed musical performances that are absolutely terrific. We have songs sung by Lawrence Livingston, Sherlock Holmes and more. Kudos to Grace Hancock for her outstanding music and lyrics; they are absolutely delightful. The choreography by Rebecca Melvin Phillips is stunning. The locations are superb, from the library to the park tea party hosted by the White Rabbit, Little Red Riding Hood's romp through the woods, and more. This could easily be expanded to a full length feature film or Broadway show.

Tell Me Another Story shares the passionate dedication of artistic giants, who have, for over one hundred years, attempted to combat stereotypes and fight for loving, authentic cultural representation in the books children read. The film highlights the creators, past and present, whose focus has uplifted children's literature, from W.E.B. Du Bois, Augusta Baker, Pura Belpr� and Ezra Jack Keats, to Pat Cummings, Marley Dias, Grace Lin, Christopher Myers, and Andrea Davis Pinkney.

What a delightful ode to children's authors, acknowledging those creators who have influenced children over the decades. This documentary examines the works of superb authors of children's literature, some of them speaking in their own words. I particularly enjoyed the recording of Ezra Jack Keats and the archival video of him speaking with Fred Rogers. Andrea Pinkey speaks about the influences on our country in 1963 - from Martin Luther King Jr. speeches to the murders of four Black children at church and how, months later The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is released to great acclaim. Although Ezra is not African American, the character on the cover of this book is, and it inspired publishers to publish more African American writers or those of other ethnic backgrounds. The film is very well produced, with a blend of archival footage and contemporary interviews, lots of shots of book covers that made me go, "ah, I love that one." This short film should be required watching for young creatives to help open up their minds to what has come before them. My hat's off to the creators: directed by Damani Baker (director), Jon Henry Fine (editor), and Meshell Ndegeocello (composer).

This film offers an overview of giants in children's literature and the back story of how their work came to be published during some difficult times.

The story follows a young boy who finds a map that takes him on a journey to solve a mystery. The map takes him to a variety of locations which appear to be checkpoints, but what that mystery is is unclear.

The idea of the young boy finding a map that leads him on a mysterious journey is quite exciting. The film is adventurous and has the element of suspense to it. The young boy is determined to solve this mystery which engages the audience. His curiosity and perseverance keeps us interested until the end of the film. The cinematography and camera work is excellent. Scenes are captured with a great deal of detail and angles are perfect. Scenes flow nicely and transitions are great. The costumes are suitable for the age of the actors and perfect for the script. The sets and locations fit the script and are perfectly chosen. Some of the locations are ominous which goes well with the theme. The music choices for multiple scenes are loud and overpower the action of the scenes. I felt that the music takes away from the film and is a bit irritating at times. The main character (Ryan Savarese) is fun to watch as he makes several stops displayed on his map in an attempt to solve the mystery. His energy and enthusiasm held my interest. The film was produced by a fifth grader student, which is quite a feat and I commend them for their work. My favorite part of the film is the final scene which takes the young boy to a secluded shed-like structure in an overgrown garden. This scene has viewers in suspense as we wait to find out what the mystery is all about.

The film has potential, but I was disappointed in the ending. Still, it is well made, considering the age of the creator. So, you decide. The message of this film is about perseverance. When solving a mystery, you have to examine clues very carefully, have considerable dedication, and never give up. The young boy does just that!

The film follows two 16-year-olds in Beijing and Qinghai Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, China. After graduating from high school, they chose two completely different paths in entirely different cultures. One goes to study abroad, and the other inherits the traditional art of his culture - ThangGa.

I really enjoyed the way the concept of sustainability is explained - methods are simplistic, yet perfect for a young audience. Causes and effects are highlighted as are solutions to the problems. The set is a school studio with a green screen. There are a variety of people in this short documentary; each has an important role in teaching about sustainability and its importance. This film is a good example of "simple is good." The cinematography and camera work are not high quality but they are sufficient to give the film what it needs for success. The camera is shaky at times and transitions between scenes are not smooth. The film is a cooperative effort of a team of students. The film is a team effort between high school students, each contributing to the project. The final scene shows how the film was made and how fun the cooperative effort was. The last scene is enjoyable and I'm glad it was included. My favorite part is the theme and its educational message. Eyes and ears need to be wide open when it comes to making a difference for our world's diminishing ecosystems. There can never be enough educational resources about sustainability and improving human's bad habits.

The storyline follows a square-headed child who uses a mirror and scissors to change the imperfections he sees in himself. Concerned about the damage done to himself, he faces an altering truth about life in a simple conversation with his mom.

The animation of this film is terrific, as are the voice talent. The storyline evokes lots of thoughts about self identify and trying to fit in to the world around us. Very well executed and definitely a great discussion starters. This would make a terrific addition to a youth and family film festival.

The message is about questioning our sense of self and how we fit into the world around us.

With animation by the neurodiverse artists of The Center for Learning Unlimited's Brainstorm Productions, here comes a motion picture that is the kitten's whiskers! Willow, a highly creative cartoon black cat, lives a domesticated life indoors with her human mama. However, her wild daydreams take her on flights of fancy around the world . . . and beyond!

Delightful animation, very colorful and dynamic. I love a cat that daydreams, especially when those daydreams are as fun and wacky as Willow's. The cat has two very different personalities, or life experiences - one of domestic contentedness, the other of a wildly adventurous kitty that travels worldwide and beyond. The juxtaposition of these two lives made me giggle as I love Willow's inventiveness. This is a fun romp that would play well in any children's or family film festival.

The storyline follows Betterave, a young teenager, who crosses the mountain to meet the legendary White Dragon, master of the Beyond. She has a favor to ask him - resurrect her dog. Dragon can't fulfill her request, but he nevertheless takes her to bid her final farewell to her deceased pet.

What a beautifully created short animated film. I love the visuals which look like crayon drawings that have come to life. The storyline is so touching and one that any pet owner will relish. The voice talent for the young girl and the dragon are perfect. The dialogue is in French with English subtitles, which are very easy to read and on screen long enough that you have time to read them. I highly recommend the for KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. It has all the charm of a fairytale and the sensitivity of a young girl for her dog.

A curious blue balloon leads a girl on an adventure through the streets of Paris, but when she crosses paths with a little boy and his red balloon, it becomes clear there's a greater magical force at work between the balloons. As a takeoff of the 1956 classic French film Le Ballon Rouge Le Ballon Bleu is the origin story of the red and blue balloons. It is a story about the magic and innocence of childhood and the importance of friendship.

What a little delight. This short film is so reminiscent of the class film, the Red Balloon and takes place in many of the same Parisian locations as the original. The youth actors are delightful and their costuming is classic of the 1950s. Well shot, surprisingly on an iPhone. It is in French with English subtitles, but the dialogue is minimal. It does move pretty slowly, so for your action focused audience, they will need to slow themselves down to appreciate this one.

Famous superheroes take care of adult problems, but children also have their superheroes, always ready to help solve their dilemmas. Anonymous heroes may be closer than we think, and in this fun movie, they will be taken back.

What a fun film, starting with a great premise - superheroes for kids that tackle kid needs. The child actors are adorable and on target. Nice camera work; great close-ups of the kids' faces and their hands as they draw. Miguel Cortes, who plays the superhero, is terrific. It's funny that we always see him eating, but he is always ready to come to the rescue of the other kids, whether it's to cook a meal, retrieve a ball, help clean up a room or play a game with someone. Good choices for locations; good backgrounds and animation. Nice live action shots. My favorite scene is when the superhero retrieves the soccer ball and escapes from the barking dogs - by a hair. When one girl's parents fight, superhero comes to help her prepare a romantic dinner for them. I love seeing the mom come home from the salon and smiling when she sees the dinner table all prepared. I love the surprise ending...

The film's message is that superheroes come in all shapes, sizes and abilities. Not every superhero looks like Spider-man!

Dressed as a revolutionary, Panchito, a 9-year-old boy, arrives at his elementary school classroom only to realize that all the other children are wearing their blue uniforms and he hides, afraid to be embarrassed. Well made short film with very good camera work, audio, and acting. I particularly enjoyed the performance by Diego Garcia who plays Panchito. The topic is well chosen and one that young kids can easily relate to - it's not unusual to be something that is in direct opposition to the rest of your group. My favorite part is the conversation between Panchito and the other boy in the restroom, each sitting on the floor of his own stall.

Beyro is a biopic of professional Iranian soccer player Alireza Beyranvand Hossein Beyranvand who runs away from his nomadic family in Lorestan to pursue his dreams in the country's capital; he suffers several trials along the way and learns what it means to be a true sportsman.

Great quality, really an enjoyable film. The story is the centerpiece, the shining diamond, of this film, as it should be. It's a typical hero's journey told in an untypical manner, with depth and candor. I was gripped from the word go. The shots are stable and I especially love how the camera team captured the many nights of struggle and strife Beyro had to go through. The editing is a bit lackluster in the initial moments of the film, as there are some points where dialogue and shots don't sync up; at one point, Beyro's coach is speaking but his mouth isn't moving. Overall, the quality of the camera work is definitely suitable for exhibition, and nicely enhances the story. The film was shot in Iran, and all the locations are perfectly adequate for the story. There is not much music, but the minimal score does enrich the development of the story and accent the emotions of the film. The dialogue is in Persian with English subtitles. The skilled Hossein Beyranvand plays Alireza Beiranvand and his capacity to emote and express on screen augments the preexisting depth of Beyro's character. His various mentors are played by Mahdi Zaminpardaz, Siavash Cheraghi Pour and Majid Potki, who each excel in encapsulating what it means to be a good coach, while also showcasing human flaws, like one of the coaches' lack of trust in the sixteen-year-old Alireza. Morteza Ali Abbas Mirzaei's direction and production tie the film together, as each scene is carefully tailored to fit with the prior and following one, and each actor freely performs on screen, a trait characteristic of films with good directors. I love Beyro evolves over the course of the film. I was inspired to learn more about the real-life player after watching the film.

The message of this film is to persevere until you reach your dreams. It shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate such as Beyro running away from home

This short live action film truly touches my heart as I remember how difficult it can be moving into a new neighborhood or a new city. This is well produced with excellent camera work, great audio, and good acting. The young people are particularly well represented here. And, the storyline is well developed in the short amount of time. Anyone that has ever moved to a new neighborhood will relate to this.

BrownWhite shows us the perspective of Israeli biracial children from different age groups and the challenges the kids face as they grow up, because they are neither "brown" nor "white."

Growing up, I was naive and had the belief that mixed people can simply fit in with either of their environments. This film shows how the Israeli biracial children undergo the pressure of having to choose between their racial identity and tend to be discriminated, regardless. Some would find it hard to grow up with a true identity because of this. The film contains clips of young kids talking about their personal experiences of what they dealt with and how they identify themselves. This made an impact on me as it portrays the message quite clearly. The documentary develops in such a way that it captures your attention from start to finish. We see how this topic tends to be quite sensitive for some.

The story is about a little stone that is at his place, gets visitors and can experience the world at a different pace, but as they watch the wind and how it plays with leaves and pebbles by whirling them around - they no longer want to sit still.

Beautifully animated, with soft almost watercolor like treatment, accompanied by a lovely musical score, this short film would make a nice addition to any children's film festival as an interstitial. The storyline about the stone wanting a different life, is one we can all relate to, and makes an interesting discussion starter.

This Iranian animated film is certainly unusual. The characters are unusual and a bit odd. I particularly enjoy the music that is interspersed and the choreographed moves that accompany it. They definitely lift this to another level. I also like the jokes, which are very kid friendly. "It's like a smart phone with no camera." The production quality is quite good; my only issue is the audio level which jumps around a bit. The dialogue is in Persian with English subtitles and they are easy to read.