The Ages 12-18 category has 4449 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles

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

You may narrow your search WITHIN these results by entering a keyword and/or topic category
Enter Keyword:
Select Topic:

You may also start a new keyword search


KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
IF I COULD RIDE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
VISION FILMS
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - A young girl dreams of a life riding horses but can't because of a disability. When Bridget, the reigning equestrian champion is injured, the two girls come together to learn the importance of following your dreams and never giving up.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - 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.

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.

By Anna Clara B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

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


SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WARNER BROS. PICTURES
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - The film continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word "SHAZAM!" is transformed into his adult Super Hero alter ego, Shazam.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Shazam! Just like that, our favorite foster family of heroes is back in Shazam: Fury of the Gods. I laughed, cried, and literally felt every emotion watching this film. It is entertaining from beginning to end. While people tend to be suspicious of sequels, this is well done and is sure to surpass the original. The plot twists and special guest appearances are mind-blowing as well.

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.

By Zo� C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic age 14

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


TURN EVERY PAGE - THE ADVENTURES OF ROBERT CARO AND ROBERT GOTTLIEB

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
TURN EVERY PAGE - THE ADVENTURES OF ROBERT CARO AND ROBERT GOTTLIEB       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT
Series: DOCUMENTARY, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Follows the iconic Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert Caro and his editor, the literary giant Robert Gottlieb, in this chronicle of a unique 50-year professional relationship. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Robert Caro and legendary editor Robert Gottlieb, have worked and fought together for 50 years, forging one of publishing's most iconic and productive partnerships. Directed by Gottlieb's daughter, Lizzie Gottlieb, Turn Every Page explores their remarkable creative collaboration, including the behind-the-scenes drama of the making of Caro's The Power Broker and the LBJ series. With humor and insight, this unique double portrait reveals the work habits, peculiarities and professional joys of these two ferocious intellects. It arrives at the culmination of a journey that has consumed both their lives and impacted generations of politicians, activists, writers and readers, and furthered our understanding of power and democracy.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Turn Every Page - The Adventures of Robert Caro and Robert Gottlieb is not only a terrific documentary, but also a very entertaining film. It isn't an action-packed movie where you'll be glued to your seat, but it is a wonderful story about two of the most important people in our literary community - Robert Caro and Robert Gottlieb.

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.

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

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


MAGICIAN'S ELEPHANT, THE

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
MAGICIAN'S ELEPHANT, THE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NETFLIX
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - The Magician's Elephant follows young Peter, who is searching for his long-lost sister, and crosses paths with a fortune teller in the market square. There is only one question on his mind: is his sister still alive? The answer -- that he must follow a mysterious elephant -- sets Peter off on a remarkable journey to complete three seemingly impossible tasks that magically change the face of his town forever. The Magician's Elephant is based on Newbery Award-winning author Kate DiCamillo's classic novel.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Magician's Elephant is a magnificent movie that totally transports you to the world of the story. It is one of my favorite animated movies that I've ever seen.

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.

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

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


LONESOME TRAIL, THE (BOOK)

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
LONESOME TRAIL, THE (BOOK)       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
ARLETTE THOMAS FLETCHER
Series: BOOK, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - The Lonesome Trail is a story about forgiveness, God's love, and a family's journey West. It is set in a fictitious town in Montana called Red Springs. It focuses on the impact of a tyrant who as a result of his own hardship causes pain and turmoil to homesteaders who are moving to the territory. The book takes the reader on a journey of two families dealing with romance, love, and betrayal. It is a God-focused story that shows how a Boston raised preacher comes to the old West to bring the message of the Lord to the people of this small town.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Lonesome Trail is very similar to the story from the New Testament of the prodigal son, set in the Wild West. There is intrigue, a love interest and solid Christian values. The book keeps your attention.

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.

By Pamela L., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - An historical fiction drama, The Lonesome Trail tales tells a captivating story about faith and history. This is definitely a must read.

The Lonesome Trail follows the story of Brent Carson, a preacher who moves to a small mining town to spread the word of God. Determined to promote acceptance and unity regardless of race and ethnicity, Brent teams up with the local teacher to help the new visitors feel welcome in their new home. However, their efforts are met with resistance from Mike McCray, the town's founder, who begins to scheme against them in a bid to push them out of the town. Brent must navigate through these challenges as he stands up for his beliefs and tries to bring the community together in the face of adversity.

The Lonesome Trail is a powerful and thought-provoking read. The Civil War was a turning point in American history, and the issues of faith and racism were central to the conflict. The Lonesome Trail effortlessly delves into these topics that shed light on the complex and painful legacy of racism in the United States. Author Arlette Thomas-Fletcher wrote this book with such sensitivity and empathy which makes this an easy and digestible read. You can tell this book is grounded in historical research and offers a nuanced and complex perspective on the issues it explores. The Lonesome Trail has the potential to be a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about race in America. The book is well written, but since it is written in the third person, I didn't feel greatly connected with the characters.

The message of The Lonesome Trail emphasizes the importance of standing up for one's beliefs, even in the face of opposition, and working towards a common goal of building a stronger and more united community.

I give The Lonesome Trail 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18 plus adults. It is available now through online book retailers.

By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 19

The most appealing thing about the book, The Lonesome Trail, is definitely the story. Also, if you are a fan of the Wild West or enjoy action this is the book for you. I really enjoyed the part when Jonah returns home after being away for so long. Something that makes this book suitable for a youth audience is the vocabulary, which is not too hard to read.

The storyline follows Elizabeth Turner, a teacher in the town of Red Springs. One day a new preacher comes to town and for Elizabeth, it is love at first sight. She immediately introduces herself to him and he does the same. When Preacher Brent Carson offers to walk Elizabeth back to the school house, another man in town, Mike McCray becomes furious and, from that day on, he tries to get Preacher Brent and all the other homesteaders out of Red Springs. McCray and his men repeatedly attempt to scare people off, but they choose to stay. Many years go by and no one leaves, but there continues to be trouble between Preacher Brent and Mike McCray.

The storyline flows very well; it doesn't change too big too fast. And, it doesn't get confusing at all. This book held my attention from start to finish. The buildings in the town and the people, as shown on the cover, look like they are from back in the day. The characters in this book portray many stereotypes; for example, the McCrays are mean and cruel while the Carsons are the complete opposite. The Carsons are peaceful to the McCrays, but the McCrays just don't like them. The problem in the book is when Mike McCray's son, Jonah leaves and betrays his family. He realizes how wrong he was and returns home.

The vocabulary and concepts are all suitable for its targeted age group of 12 to 18-year-olds. One special feature I noticed is the side bar, where you can scroll through different chapters and pages.

The book has lots of entertainment elements -- the first one is the storyline itself. Another thing that is entertaining are the pictures for each chapter. The book may make kids want to read more books like this, helping with their education.

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 retailers.

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

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: Book
      Buy Here (Amazon.com)


CHAMPIONS

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
CHAMPIONS       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
FOCUS FEATURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Woody Harrelson stars in the hilarious and heartwarming story of a former minor-league basketball coach who, after a series of missteps, is ordered by the court to manage a team of players with intellectual disabilities. He soon realizes that despite his doubts, together, this team can go further than they ever imagined.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - coming soon
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The storyline of Champions revolves around the life of Marcus (Woody Harrelson) whose biggest dream is to become an NBA basketball coach. However, he can't seem to get past the J leagues. After a continual tiring frustration, one night it really affects him and he foolishly drinks, drives and gets caught. Marcus is now stuck with 90 days of community service, where he is assigned to coach basketball to kids with disabilities. Throughout this process he learns what it's really like to truly see people and connect with them.

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.

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

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


CREED III

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
CREED III       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WARNER BROS. PICTURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - After dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) has been thriving in both his career and family life. When a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy, Damian (Jonathan Majors), resurfaces after serving a long sentence in prison, he is eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face-off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damian - a fighter who has nothing to lose. Creed III is the third installment in the successful franchise and is Michael B. Jordan's directorial debut.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Creed III is a movie that is carried by its acting. With a combination of seasoned and up-and-coming actors, the scenes are more meaningful than ever. In his directorial debut, Michael B. Jordan stars in a movie that had me invested from the start, though to the very end.

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.

By Emma D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

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


OUTER BANKS: SEASON 3

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
OUTER BANKS: SEASON 3       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NETFLIX
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - After losing the gold and fleeing the Outer Banks, Season 3 finds the Pogues washed ashore on a desert island that, for a brief moment, seems like an idyllic home. Officially deemed "Poguelandia," the island's newest residents spend their days fishing, swimming, and reveling in the carefree lifestyle of their temporary dwelling. But things quickly go south for John B, Sarah, Kiara, Pope, JJ, and Cleo when they find themselves once again caught up in a race for the treasure, quite literally running for their lives. They're broke and far from home, they can't trust anyone, Ward and Rafe are hungry for revenge, and there's a ruthless Caribbean Don who will stop at nothing to find the bounty. Was the treasure ever within their reach? Or was it all a trap to stop them once and for all? Either way, it's the Pogues against the world - and the only way out is together.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - See youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The third season of the teen (and adult) adventure series, Outer Banks, is back and even more action-packed! This season is filled with loads of treasure hunting, close escapes, daring rescues and romance. I love how much the plot and characters change from the previous seasons.

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.

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

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


QUIET GIRL, THE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
QUIET GIRL, THE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
SUPER LTD
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Rural Ireland 1981. A quiet, neglected girl is sent away from her dysfunctional family to live with foster parents for the summer. She blossoms in their care, but in this house where there are meant to be no secrets, she discovers one.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Filled with pathos, The Quiet Girl is a beautiful film with a smartly-written screenplay and luminous cinematography. The story keeps you enthralled, and, by the end, audiences will understand that melancholy and silence don't always go together.

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.

By Emma Defot, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

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


WE HAVE A GHOST

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
WE HAVE A GHOST       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NETFLIX
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - The discovery that their house is haunted by a ghost named Ernest makes Kevin's family a social media sensation. But when Kevin and Ernest get to the bottom of the mystery of Ernest's past, they become targets of the CIA.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The adventure/comedy film We Have a Ghost, directed by Christopher Landon, is thrilling, captivating and engaging. I like how this film balances elements of comedy and drama, while still maintaining a suspenseful plot.

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.

I give We Have A Ghost 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases on Netflix February 24, 2023. Enjoy!

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


ANT-MAN AND THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
ANT-MAN AND THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WALT DISNEY STUDIOS MOTION PICTURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne, along with Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne, explore the Quantum Realm, where they interact with strange creatures and embark on an adventure that goes beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is mind-blowing; I enjoyed it a lot mainly because of its amazing CGI. But, the acting is stunning and the script is hilarious. This film definitely held my attention from start to end.

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.

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

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


MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
DISNEY CHANNEL
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Based on Marvel's hit comic books, "Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" follows the adventures of super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur, whom she accidentally brings into present-day New York City through a portal. Bolstered by Devil Dino's fierce loyalty and brawn and the loving support of her family and best friend Casey, Lunella sets out to make a difference and protect her beloved Lower East Side neighborhood.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Based on the comics of the same name, Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur is a witty, realistic and charming animated series for all superhero lovers, young and old!

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.

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

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


SNOW WHITE AND THE FAIRYTALE FUN FORCE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
SNOW WHITE AND THE FAIRYTALE FUN FORCE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WOW NOW ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE, AGES 5 - 12
Topic - Family
Description - Little Snow White is growing up fast! When her best friend, Dorothy, is in trouble, the sassy princess quickly calls on the bravest gang of fairytale characters ever assembled to come to her friend's rescue! Together they are the Fairytale Fun Force and they are ready to spring into action!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - coming soon
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I like Snow White and the Fairytale Fun Force because it is a unique kid's fairytale cartoon where children are learning with humor. This show combines adventure and comedy with friendship and heroes.

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.

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

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


80 FOR BRADY

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
80 FOR BRADY       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
PARAMOUNT PICTURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - 80 For Brady is inspired by the true story of four best friends and New England Patriots fans who take a life-changing trip to Super Bowl LI to see their hero Tom Brady play, and the chaos that ensues as they navigate the wilds of the biggest sporting event in the country.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - 80 for Brady is a perfect movie to watch with a best friend, family member and sports fan. What I love about this movie is that it successfully connects the importance of being courageous, while trusting those closest to you to overcome your biggest obstacles in both sports and in life. Also, what else would you expect from Tom Brady (producer), but an inspiring movie about the power of attitude and belief to pull off miracles.

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.

By Emma D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

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


SO MUCH TO LIVE FOR TODAY

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
SO MUCH TO LIVE FOR TODAY
ALAN CHRIEST / POWERSPASH PROJECT
Series: SHORT, AGES 2-18
Topic - Family
Description - A short music video celebrating life through a collection of images of fun activities by kids, young and old. This fast paced montage shows quick clips of images of people doing fun and cool things.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is my new happy video. I watched it twice, then shared it with one of our other jurors who was having a difficult day. It made her smile as much as it did me. A short music video that celebrates life through a collection of images of fun activities by kids, young and old. This fast paced montage shows quick clips of images of people doing fun and cool things, from rollercoasters, to diving into a pool, to rafting rapids, blowing out candles on a birthday cake, dancing, standing on a mountaintop, parachuting, exercising with your child, running, winning a race, playing basketball, a cat drinking water, a child eating ice cream, hula hooping, marching in the band, playing tennis, juggling, making a snow angel, and oh... so much more. The background music is perfect - upbeat and fast paced. If you didn't feel so happy before you watched this, you certainly will burst out into a smile or more after you do. Quick edits work well for this short film. Kudos to filmmaker Alan J. Chriest for another fun and uplifting short film. The film's message is that there are lots of reasons to smile, just take a look at some. I give So Much To Live For Today 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This is my new happy video. I watched it twice, then shared it with one of our other jurors who was having a difficult day. It made her smile as much as it did me. A short music video that celebrates life through a collection of images of fun activities by kids, young and old. This fast paced montage shows quick clips of images of people doing fun and cool things, from rollercoasters, to diving into a pool, to rafting rapids, blowing out candles on a birthday cake, dancing, standing on a mountaintop, parachuting, exercising with your child, running, winning a race, playing basketball, a cat drinking water, a child eating ice cream, hula hooping, marching in the band, playing tennis, juggling, making a snow angel, and oh... so much more. The background music is perfect - upbeat and fast paced. If you didn't feel so happy before you watched this, you certainly will burst out into a smile or more after you do. Quick edits work well for this short film. Kudos to filmmaker Alan J. Chriest for another fun and uplifting short film. The film's message is that there are lots of reasons to smile, just take a look at some. I give So Much To Live For Today 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MELODY

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MELODY
LAUREN E. ROMAN
Series: STUDENT ANIMATED SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - A father, out of loneliness, sings his daughter into existence, but as she grows older, her curiosity leads her to a dangerous new voice.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautifully executed short animation college student film that touches your heart and reminds you of the connectedness between parents and their children. A father, out of loneliness, sings his daughter into existence, but as she grows older, her curiosity leads her to a dangerous new voice. This animated college student short takes a look at the loneliness of a young man who invents his own daughter by singing her into existence. The animation is well done; the background music is subtle and appropriate. I love the images of the man and his baby girl. We watch her growing up and the interaction with her dad changes as she wants to explore a wider world. The dad longs for her to remain the infant in arms that she once was, but she is discovering her new voice and new self. The film's message is about creating our own reality and learning to grow and change with it. I give Melody 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Beautifully executed short animation college student film that touches your heart and reminds you of the connectedness between parents and their children. A father, out of loneliness, sings his daughter into existence, but as she grows older, her curiosity leads her to a dangerous new voice. This animated college student short takes a look at the loneliness of a young man who invents his own daughter by singing her into existence. The animation is well done; the background music is subtle and appropriate. I love the images of the man and his baby girl. We watch her growing up and the interaction with her dad changes as she wants to explore a wider world. The dad longs for her to remain the infant in arms that she once was, but she is discovering her new voice and new self. The film's message is about creating our own reality and learning to grow and change with it. I give Melody 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


SILKWORM

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
SILKWORM
AMIR HONARMAND
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-16
Topic - Family
Description - A used smart phone sends a boy in rural Iran on an unexpected journey of reconnecting an estranged couple.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This short dramatic film from Iran touches a universal topic of how smart phones have infiltrated daily life of people worldwide and how young people of meager means covet them.

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 film's message is that sometimes a gift isn't a gift, especially when you don't know its origins. I give Silkworm 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It would play well at a teen/young adult film festival and could be a great discussion starter. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This short dramatic film from Iran touches a universal topic of how smart phones have infiltrated daily life of people worldwide and how young people of meager means covet them.

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 film's message is that sometimes a gift isn't a gift, especially when you don't know its origins. I give Silkworm 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It would play well at a teen/young adult film festival and could be a great discussion starter. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


FITTING IN

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
FITTING IN
MARK LESCHINSKY
Series: STUDENT SHORT, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - "Fitting In" is a symbolic social-impact film that draws a parallel between fitting into shoes and fitting into society, and, in doing so, it inspires us to embrace our unique personalities.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautifully shot, this student film delivers a visual message in a unique way. Fitting In is a symbolic social-impact film that draws a parallel between fitting into shoes and fitting into society, and, in doing so, it inspires us to embrace our unique personalities. I love the visuals in this short film with the shots of strikingly colorful shoes and the train. The narrator Barbara Leschinsky delivers her message in a calm and deliberate way. This high school student made film addresses how each of us is unique and our efforts to try to fit in are sometimes challenging. The background music is non-intrusive and helps drive a constant pace in the film. This would make a great interstitial for a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival and be a great discussion starter. The film's message is about the challenging of trying to fit in. I give Fitting In 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Beautifully shot, this student film delivers a visual message in a unique way. Fitting In is a symbolic social-impact film that draws a parallel between fitting into shoes and fitting into society, and, in doing so, it inspires us to embrace our unique personalities. I love the visuals in this short film with the shots of strikingly colorful shoes and the train. The narrator Barbara Leschinsky delivers her message in a calm and deliberate way. This high school student made film addresses how each of us is unique and our efforts to try to fit in are sometimes challenging. The background music is non-intrusive and helps drive a constant pace in the film. This would make a great interstitial for a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival and be a great discussion starter. The film's message is about the challenging of trying to fit in. I give Fitting In 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BLOOD SISTERS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BLOOD SISTERS
ANASTACIA PUERTAS
Series: STUDENT SHORT, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Three pre-teen girls Daphne, Ivy, and Hanna bond at summer camp through helping Daphne figure out how to deal with her first period.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The short film, Blood Sisters, is definitely relatable for young women. Friends are very supportive and this story is told in a tasteful way.

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 film's message is that awkward moments are part of life and growing up. Supportive friends can make all the difference in an awkward situation. I give Blood Sisters 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The short film, Blood Sisters, is definitely relatable for young women. Friends are very supportive and this story is told in a tasteful way.

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 film's message is that awkward moments are part of life and growing up. Supportive friends can make all the difference in an awkward situation. I give Blood Sisters 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MY SUPERPOWER

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MY SUPERPOWER
MAXWELL WILLIAM ANDREWS
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 2-12
Topic - Family
Description - In his search for his superpower, nine year old Maxwell discovers that his words have the power to help and to harm.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - My Superpower is great, simply because we are shown a different approach to superpowers than the norm we are used to seeing. My Superpower is a short film that showcases a journey of a nine-year-old in search of his superpower, only to discover that his words have the power to help or to harm.

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 message is that a superpower doesn't have to be what we only see in movies but can be something that helps people. I give My Superpower 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12. Reviewed by Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - My Superpower is great, simply because we are shown a different approach to superpowers than the norm we are used to seeing. My Superpower is a short film that showcases a journey of a nine-year-old in search of his superpower, only to discover that his words have the power to help or to harm.

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 message is that a superpower doesn't have to be what we only see in movies but can be something that helps people. I give My Superpower 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12. Reviewed by Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


ROBOTS DON'T TELL JOKES

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
ROBOTS DON'T TELL JOKES
KELLI CALDWELL
Series: ANIMATED SHORT, AGES 2-18
Topic - Family
Description - Robot thinks he has a wonderful joke, so he keeps trying to tell it, but none of the other robots ever laugh. They tell him "robots don't tell jokes..." Will Robot give up on his awesome joke or will he find his tribe? Stop-motion using mainly wood scraps and metal pieces.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What a wonderful film! Fun, spunky, great music and great message. This is exactly what fits into a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. Robot thinks he has a wonderful joke, so he keeps trying to tell it, but none of the other robots ever laugh. They tell him "robots don't tell jokes." Will Robot give up on his awesome joke or will he find his tribe?

Love this short film, from the music to the intent. And, the animation is adorable. It gives Robots personalities and human qualities, which endears them to us. The visuals are superb - plus bright and colorful. The stop-motion animation makes use of various stuff from wood scraps and metal pieces to children's blocks and clacking teeth. The film's message is a protest against the automation and dehumanization of everything as it anthropomorphizes "robots." I give Robots Don't Tell Jokes 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a wonderful film! Fun, spunky, great music and great message. This is exactly what fits into a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. Robot thinks he has a wonderful joke, so he keeps trying to tell it, but none of the other robots ever laugh. They tell him "robots don't tell jokes." Will Robot give up on his awesome joke or will he find his tribe?

Love this short film, from the music to the intent. And, the animation is adorable. It gives Robots personalities and human qualities, which endears them to us. The visuals are superb - plus bright and colorful. The stop-motion animation makes use of various stuff from wood scraps and metal pieces to children's blocks and clacking teeth. The film's message is a protest against the automation and dehumanization of everything as it anthropomorphizes "robots." I give Robots Don't Tell Jokes 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


GENERATIONAL TRAUMA

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GENERATIONAL TRAUMA
ALAN CHRIEST / POWERSPASH PROJECT
Series: DOCUMENTARY SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - We may inherit many things from our family such as heirlooms and how we look, and sometimes we may inherit trauma.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Intrigued would be one of the words I can use to describe how fascinated I was with the documentary, Generational Trauma. I like how everything is arranged in an educational way that allows you to easily follow along. Generational Trauma is a short film focusing on generational trauma - where it comes from and how someone can address it. The subject of the film is quite interesting, but it tends to be more educational than entertaining. I like the structure of the film. The story develops nicely and progresses to a tender note at the very end. The visuals are good; it is more of a slideshow with some video images and some animation. I love the music; it is quite extravagant and helps enhance the seriousness of the topic. Generational Trauma is narrated by Alan J. Chriest, who is also the producer and director. He makes a perfect narrator because he understands the seriousness of the effects of trauma on many people. The message of the film is that people should be handled gently, because you are never aware of what they might be going through. I give Generational Trauma 4.0 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It educates people about trauma. By Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Intrigued would be one of the words I can use to describe how fascinated I was with the documentary, Generational Trauma. I like how everything is arranged in an educational way that allows you to easily follow along. Generational Trauma is a short film focusing on generational trauma - where it comes from and how someone can address it. The subject of the film is quite interesting, but it tends to be more educational than entertaining. I like the structure of the film. The story develops nicely and progresses to a tender note at the very end. The visuals are good; it is more of a slideshow with some video images and some animation. I love the music; it is quite extravagant and helps enhance the seriousness of the topic. Generational Trauma is narrated by Alan J. Chriest, who is also the producer and director. He makes a perfect narrator because he understands the seriousness of the effects of trauma on many people. The message of the film is that people should be handled gently, because you are never aware of what they might be going through. I give Generational Trauma 4.0 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It educates people about trauma. By Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 14 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


STORY OF THE OPERA, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
STORY OF THE OPERA, THE
YUE ZHANG
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - In order to compile a children's recitation book of ancient poems, Ms.Qingmu goes to visit Mr. Yao in Zhufeng Village. There, Ms. Qingmu meets a girl named Douya who has talent as an opera singer and she invites her to come to the city to learn. Two singers, Qianqian and Zixuan are jealous of Douya and they bully her. In order to beat Douya at the Elite Youth Art Competition, Nana deliberately makes Douya eat fruit shake, which makes her hoarse. When the results are released, Nana doesn't win; all the students talk about Nana, but Douya helps her out. Ms. Qingmu has no money to continue running the school and Douya's mother loses her job. Just as they are going to return to the village, Douya receives an admission letter from the Opera School.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Story of the Opera offers a great window into Chinese culture on so many levels. The story unfolds slowly to reveal life in the countryside of China and how Chinese teachers and students conduct themselves. I like the characterization of the protagonist and the antagonist. I enjoyed the chanting and poems and, despite the bad behavior from jealous girls (part of the character arc) and some of the teacher's misguided techniques of teaching, the film is very good! This film is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles.

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.

The film's message is that kindness is a more powerful value than even talent! Kindness heals all wounds. I give The Story of the Opera 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults Cross-cultural education is always a plus in film. The differences in this film vs. American films are rich, plus we learn about Chinese education and opera. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Story of the Opera offers a great window into Chinese culture on so many levels. The story unfolds slowly to reveal life in the countryside of China and how Chinese teachers and students conduct themselves. I like the characterization of the protagonist and the antagonist. I enjoyed the chanting and poems and, despite the bad behavior from jealous girls (part of the character arc) and some of the teacher's misguided techniques of teaching, the film is very good! This film is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles.

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.

The film's message is that kindness is a more powerful value than even talent! Kindness heals all wounds. I give The Story of the Opera 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults Cross-cultural education is always a plus in film. The differences in this film vs. American films are rich, plus we learn about Chinese education and opera. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 46 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


GIULIA E IL CAPOPOSTO

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GIULIA E IL CAPOPOSTO
ANTONIO MARIA CASTALDO
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Giulia e il Capoposto is a small fairy tale based on a true story. Giulia has recently lost her father and she wishes to communicate with him. She decides to buy a balloon to which she attaches a letter which, flying up into the sky, will reach her father. However, when the balloon begins to rise, something goes wrong. It is thanks to the intervention of the chief of the fire brigade that Giulia will be able to make her wish come true.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Giulia E Il Capoposto is a sweet short film that I found heartwarming.

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.

The film's message is that when you want to achieve something, you should know that there will be other people around to help and support you, whether it is friends, family or even strangers. I give Giulia E Il Capoposto 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Ari P., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Giulia E Il Capoposto is a sweet short film that I found heartwarming.

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.

The film's message is that when you want to achieve something, you should know that there will be other people around to help and support you, whether it is friends, family or even strangers. I give Giulia E Il Capoposto 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Ari P., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 12 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


#NANAROCKS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
#NANAROCKS
LETICIA AGUDO
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - A woman celebrates her 78th birthday with her two granddaughters. Rachel regales her with loud attention, gifts, and photos she posts online. Rosie quietly works away cleaning, cooking, and sorting Nana's meds. Rachel almost kills her diabetic Nana with a high-sugar cake and Rosie rushes to the rescue. Still, Nana seems to enjoy Rachel's visits most, taking Rosie's quiet nature for granted until Rosie falls ill. Rachel visits Nana and leaves her with no food, a shoddy cleaning job and a broken telly. Moved by seeing the last container of food prepared by Rosie, Nana embarks on an epic cross-country journey on her mobility scooter.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This film provides an Interesting study in contrasts between two grandchildren who are visiting their grandmother. The eldest granddaughter regales her with loud attention, gifts and constantly posts photos online. Meanwhile, her younger sister quietly cleans, cooks and sorts grandma's meds. Nana enjoy the levity of the older and takes the younger's quiet nature for granted until she falls ill

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.

The film's message is that this is what it's like taking care of our older parents or grandparents. It's not always easy, but it's all worthwhile and, sometimes they have to take care of the younger ones. I give #NanaRocks 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This film provides an Interesting study in contrasts between two grandchildren who are visiting their grandmother. The eldest granddaughter regales her with loud attention, gifts and constantly posts photos online. Meanwhile, her younger sister quietly cleans, cooks and sorts grandma's meds. Nana enjoy the levity of the older and takes the younger's quiet nature for granted until she falls ill

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.

The film's message is that this is what it's like taking care of our older parents or grandparents. It's not always easy, but it's all worthwhile and, sometimes they have to take care of the younger ones. I give #NanaRocks 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MULBERRYHOOD

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MULBERRYHOOD
PEDRO AUGUSTO ALMEIDA
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - It's the summer of 2004. Three boys play ball in a parking lot. Two brothers interfere with the game. One ball.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Mulberryhood offers a blast from the past as we are privy to watching a close knit group of young boys pursue their passion - soccer.

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.

The film gives us a glimpse into another time and another reality, emphasizing the type of friendships established decades ago. I give Mulberryhood 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mulberryhood offers a blast from the past as we are privy to watching a close knit group of young boys pursue their passion - soccer.

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.

The film gives us a glimpse into another time and another reality, emphasizing the type of friendships established decades ago. I give Mulberryhood 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST
Runtime: 14 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


ATTRACTION

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
ATTRACTION
HUANSHUO WANG
Series: FOREIGN STUDENT SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - A boy tries to attract a girl, who he assumes is deaf.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I enjoyed Attraction for showing me that teens in China are pretty much the same as in the US. This student made film made me giggle.

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.

The film's message is "don't presume you know more about someone than you do. "I give Attraction 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed Attraction for showing me that teens in China are pretty much the same as in the US. This student made film made me giggle.

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.

The film's message is "don't presume you know more about someone than you do. "I give Attraction 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LEGEND OF QUALICUM BAY, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LEGEND OF QUALICUM BAY, THE
JIM GARRISON
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - 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.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Delightful and so appropriate for a youth and family audience. Well produced, with terrific youth actors. The theme of bullying is so appropriate.

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.

I give The Legend of Qualicum Bay 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Delightful and so appropriate for a youth and family audience. Well produced, with terrific youth actors. The theme of bullying is so appropriate.

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.

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


STAGE PRESENTS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
STAGE PRESENTS
GREG JESCHKE
Series: DOCUMENTARY SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Stage Presents: The Gifts of a Shared Experience in Theater is an engaging, intimate film that uses time to reveal what was gained by a group of youngsters who performed together in children's theater. Their presence on stage resulted in the presents they still keep with them a decade later. Stage Presents has been recognized as an Award Winner at the 19th annual Black Swan International Film Festival.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I love the positive message Stage Presents provides, allowing everyone to participate in their passions, despite their young age. In this musical, you are accepted; no matter who you are or where you come from.

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.

O give Stage Presents 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. I recommend this film for the KIDS FIRST! film festival because it inspires kids to follow their dreams and provides motivation to others. Kids and parents would really benefit from watching this title. By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love the positive message Stage Presents provides, allowing everyone to participate in their passions, despite their young age. In this musical, you are accepted; no matter who you are or where you come from.

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.

O give Stage Presents 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. I recommend this film for the KIDS FIRST! film festival because it inspires kids to follow their dreams and provides motivation to others. Kids and parents would really benefit from watching this title. By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 36 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LOST LETTERS AND WHERE DO THEY GO

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LOST LETTERS AND WHERE DO THEY GO
ANA GRACA
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Rupert Bell, a 7 years-old aspiring pilot, is bored at home when the mailman arrives with a miss-addressed letter. When Rupert ventures out onto the streets on a mission to find the right addressee - an apparent grumpy old lady named Clarabella - he finds out that first impressions can be miss-leading and that they actually share a mutual passion.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What a charming short film from British/Brazilian director Ana Graca. Moving at a deliberate slow pace, we see a new friendship evolve due to a misaddressed letter. The story follows Rupert Bell (Louie Stow), a 7-year-old aspiring pilot, who is bored at home when the mailman arrives with a misaddressed letter. When Rupert ventures out trying to find the right addressee - an apparently grumpy old lady named Clarabella (Elsa Annushka) - he finds out that first impressions can be misleading and that they actually share a mutual passion.

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.

The film's message is about loneliness and friendship - and how can they have many different shapes. In this case, two very different people find a common bond in their interest in airplanes. I give Lost Letters And Where Do They Go 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a charming short film from British/Brazilian director Ana Graca. Moving at a deliberate slow pace, we see a new friendship evolve due to a misaddressed letter. The story follows Rupert Bell (Louie Stow), a 7-year-old aspiring pilot, who is bored at home when the mailman arrives with a misaddressed letter. When Rupert ventures out trying to find the right addressee - an apparently grumpy old lady named Clarabella (Elsa Annushka) - he finds out that first impressions can be misleading and that they actually share a mutual passion.

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.

The film's message is about loneliness and friendship - and how can they have many different shapes. In this case, two very different people find a common bond in their interest in airplanes. I give Lost Letters And Where Do They Go 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


NEWBIE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
NEWBIE
JAMES SKINNER
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Novice teacher Mike is worried his new class won't be able to see past his disability but soon realizes that he too has lessons to learn.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This one crept up on my slowly. I was unimpressed by the school children's rude behavior at the beginning, but the perseverance of the principal and the novice teacher are quite compelling.

Novice teacher Mike is worried his new class won't be able to see past his disability but soon realizes that he too has lessons to learn. I found this film very touching, especially the ending, which was not anticipated. There are some issues with the production such as lighting, which falls short. However, the storyline and the authenticity of the children in the film are so compelling that I overlooked that. This is a great short film for film festivals to use as a discussion starter about disabilities. The film's message is that kindness comes in a most unexpected way sometimes. I give Newbie 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This one crept up on my slowly. I was unimpressed by the school children's rude behavior at the beginning, but the perseverance of the principal and the novice teacher are quite compelling.

Novice teacher Mike is worried his new class won't be able to see past his disability but soon realizes that he too has lessons to learn. I found this film very touching, especially the ending, which was not anticipated. There are some issues with the production such as lighting, which falls short. However, the storyline and the authenticity of the children in the film are so compelling that I overlooked that. This is a great short film for film festivals to use as a discussion starter about disabilities. The film's message is that kindness comes in a most unexpected way sometimes. I give Newbie 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


DON T HANG UP!

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
DON T HANG UP!
JORDYN DIEW
Series: STUDENT SHORT, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - A short thriller about a young girl being harassed by an unknown caller.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The title of this film, Don't Hang Up, is a real thriller grabber with anticipated curiosity, yet it is more humorous than frightening. Elements are in place for some thrills, but the film has an interesting plot twist that anyone who has answered numerous phone calls trying to sell a car extended warranty can relate to.

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 message of this film is perhaps that if you answer a phone call from an unidentified caller, you should probably hear them out on what they have to say. Just maybe, if the caller had been able to complete his sales pitch, he may have ended his quest to sell an extended warranty! I give Don't Hang Up 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Dominic D. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The title of this film, Don't Hang Up, is a real thriller grabber with anticipated curiosity, yet it is more humorous than frightening. Elements are in place for some thrills, but the film has an interesting plot twist that anyone who has answered numerous phone calls trying to sell a car extended warranty can relate to.

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 message of this film is perhaps that if you answer a phone call from an unidentified caller, you should probably hear them out on what they have to say. Just maybe, if the caller had been able to complete his sales pitch, he may have ended his quest to sell an extended warranty! I give Don't Hang Up 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Dominic D. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MOMO IN DUBAI

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MOMO IN DUBAI
ZAKARIA ZARGANY
Series: FOREIGN FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Momo in Dubai' is a children's movie narrating the life of a middle class Kerala (India)family travelling to UAE to spend their summer vacation with their NRI father. The movie is narrated in a humorous style and approaches the shift from expectations of a family to the realities they are required to confront.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Momo In Dubai is a light, fun film that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face this holiday season. With a unique plot and superb performances, it's sure to be a hit with kids everywhere.

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.

There are various messages in this film. One is that if there is a will, there is a way; another is that family always sticks together; and another is to never be afraid to explore. Note that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. I give Momo In Dubai 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. pecial interest for festivals looking for films about Indian culture, Emirati or travel. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Momo In Dubai is a light, fun film that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face this holiday season. With a unique plot and superb performances, it's sure to be a hit with kids everywhere.

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.

There are various messages in this film. One is that if there is a will, there is a way; another is that family always sticks together; and another is to never be afraid to explore. Note that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. I give Momo In Dubai 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. pecial interest for festivals looking for films about Indian culture, Emirati or travel. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 105 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BOY'S DREAM, A

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BOY'S DREAM, A
ZHE ZHANG
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - In 2004, Yeerxiati, a 9-year-old boy who lost his mother as a child, lived here with his grandparents in the deep mountain pasture in Northern Xinjiang. The boy's lamb also lost its mother since childhood and has been taken care of by the little boy. One day, Yeerxiati's father returned to the grassland to pick up his son to study in the city. The little boy who just arrived in the city can't quickly adapt to urban life, and the lamb often appears in Yeerxiati's fantasies and dreams. After a long time, one day, Yeerxiati's grandfather suddenly died, and his grandmother was received by his father to the city. Yeerxiati gradually realized that his life was changing
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What a beautiful, touching story of resilience. This sweet boy loses his mother and his life undergoes a series of changes, which he struggles to adapt to, but does. Heartfelt and honest.

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.

This film is dedicated to the hometown where the filmmaker grew up and it's a quiet memory to a life from the past. I give A Boy's Dream 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a beautiful, touching story of resilience. This sweet boy loses his mother and his life undergoes a series of changes, which he struggles to adapt to, but does. Heartfelt and honest.

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.

This film is dedicated to the hometown where the filmmaker grew up and it's a quiet memory to a life from the past. I give A Boy's Dream 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 36 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BETWEEN THE LINES

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BETWEEN THE LINES
DOM LEE
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Shy book lover Jane is unexpectedly tasked with saving her beloved library from closure...but help arrives in a surprising way.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Between the Lines is officially my favorite short film of the week. It is so incredibly imaginative and exceedingly well produced. Plus, it's a musical!

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.

The film's message is about the importance of preserving our libraries; that is where the magic comes from in the form of unforgettable characters that live in our minds forever. I give Between the Lines 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Between the Lines is officially my favorite short film of the week. It is so incredibly imaginative and exceedingly well produced. Plus, it's a musical!

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.

The film's message is about the importance of preserving our libraries; that is where the magic comes from in the form of unforgettable characters that live in our minds forever. I give Between the Lines 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


TELL ME ANOTHER STORY

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
TELL ME ANOTHER STORY
NOAH BASHEVKIN
Series: SHORT, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Directed by Damani Baker (The House on Coco Road), edited by Jon Henry Fine, and with original music by Meshell Ndegeocello, 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.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - As a lover of children's literature, I was so excited to watch this documentary and it is everything I hoped for and more. Beautifully produced, with great comments of some of our favorite children's authors, this film really addresses the importance of children's books to support cultural diversity.

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.

I give Tell Me Another Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - As a lover of children's literature, I was so excited to watch this documentary and it is everything I hoped for and more. Beautifully produced, with great comments of some of our favorite children's authors, this film really addresses the importance of children's books to support cultural diversity.

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.

I give Tell Me Another Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MYSTERIOUS PLACES

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MYSTERIOUS PLACES
ANDREW LEOPARD
Series: STUDENT SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - A young boy finds a mysterious map which leads him on a hunt, where he comes across a mysterious friend. Where this map, and this mysterious friend lead him, nobody knows.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The short film Mysterious Places shows some promise, although the true mystery is hard to determine. Viewers are set up within the multiple scenes for a mystery and it is quite enjoyable yet, in the end, the storyline falls short in holding your suspense.

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!

I give Mysterious Places 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Reviewed by Dominic D., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The short film Mysterious Places shows some promise, although the true mystery is hard to determine. Viewers are set up within the multiple scenes for a mystery and it is quite enjoyable yet, in the end, the storyline falls short in holding your suspense.

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!

I give Mysterious Places 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Reviewed by Dominic D., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


TWO WAYS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
TWO WAYS
TOM WANG
Series: FOREIGN DOCUMENTARY, AGE 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - 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 went on to study abroad, and the other inherited the traditional art of his culture---ThangGa
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I enjoyed this documentary and the insight it gives us into Chinese culture in the shape of two young adults.

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.

Beautifully produced documentary following two young boys who take very different paths after high school, both are very interesting and the film shows how they pursue their individual goals. Great camera work, good audio, excellent editing. I thoroughly enjoyed this and the glimpse it gives us into Chinese culture. The dialogue is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles; the subtitles are somewhat small and not always completely in proper English, but you still understand the drift of the film. The film's message is about how two people can pursue completely different paths to find their own personal version of happiness. I give Two Ways 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed this documentary and the insight it gives us into Chinese culture in the shape of two young adults.

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.

Beautifully produced documentary following two young boys who take very different paths after high school, both are very interesting and the film shows how they pursue their individual goals. Great camera work, good audio, excellent editing. I thoroughly enjoyed this and the glimpse it gives us into Chinese culture. The dialogue is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles; the subtitles are somewhat small and not always completely in proper English, but you still understand the drift of the film. The film's message is about how two people can pursue completely different paths to find their own personal version of happiness. I give Two Ways 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 9 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


RISE, FALL, HOPE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
RISE, FALL, HOPE
PEDER HILL
Series: FOREIGN DOCUMENTARY, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - A documentary which highlights the concept of sustainability and its importance for our generation and for future generations. We observe 14-year-olds explore humanity's stumbling struggle for sustainability.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Rise, Fall, Hope is a documentary film which highlights the concept of sustainability and its importance for our generation and for future generations.

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 film's message is about responsibility and commitment, emphasizing how we must all do our part, be responsible, and be committed to making a difference for Mother Earth. I give Rise, Fall, Hope 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Rise, Fall, Hope is a documentary film which highlights the concept of sustainability and its importance for our generation and for future generations.

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 film's message is about responsibility and commitment, emphasizing how we must all do our part, be responsible, and be committed to making a difference for Mother Earth. I give Rise, Fall, Hope 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


AS SIMPLE AS THIS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
AS SIMPLE AS THIS
RAHA RAZAVI
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - A square-headed child puts a mirror and scissors into a weapon to change the imperfections he sees. Mortified and hopeless of the damage done to himself, he faces an altering truth about life in a simple conversation with his mom.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Fascinating exploration of self identity and discovery.

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.

I give As Simple As It Is 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Fascinating exploration of self identity and discovery.

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.

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


WILLOW'S TALE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
WILLOW'S TALE
MARLENE SHARP
Series: ANIMATED SHORT, AGES 2-12
Topic - Family
Description - 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!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Every film festival needs films that are "just for fun" and Willow's Tale is just that. It will make you giggle as you follow little Willow's antics in the real world and her dream world.

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 film's message is that there are two sides to every coin, or cat - even if one is entirely make believe. I give Willow's Tale 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Every film festival needs films that are "just for fun" and Willow's Tale is just that. It will make you giggle as you follow little Willow's antics in the real world and her dream world.

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 film's message is that there are two sides to every coin, or cat - even if one is entirely make believe. I give Willow's Tale 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 4 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BETTERAVE & THE DRAGON

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BETTERAVE & THE DRAGON
ORANE DELONGEAS
Series: FOREIGN STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8 -12
Topic - Family
Description - Betterave, a young teenager, 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.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Ah, my favorite film of the day. Delightfully created and a wonderful message make this perfect for KIDS FIRST!

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.

The film's message is to be true to yourself and you will get what you need. I give Betterave & the Dragon 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Ah, my favorite film of the day. Delightfully created and a wonderful message make this perfect for KIDS FIRST!

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.

The film's message is to be true to yourself and you will get what you need. I give Betterave & the Dragon 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LE BALLON BLEU (THE BLUE BALLOON)

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LE BALLON BLEU (THE BLUE BALLOON)
KATHERINE GRIFFIN
Series: SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - 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. The 1956 classic French film Le Ballon Rouge has a single scene with a girl and a blue balloon. Le Ballon Bleu is her story and the origin story for the red and blue balloons from the classic children's film. Like the original film, this is a story about the magic and innocence of childhood and the importance of friendship. The film showcases many of the same Parisian locations as the original film as the filmmakers designed the film so it could be intercut seamlessly with the original. Dialogue is in French with English subtitles and the film was shot on iPhone.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - As a long time fan of The Red Balloon, I was looking forward to watching this film which is based on it. I was not disappointed. It's true joy.

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.

I give Le Ballon Bleu (The Blue Balloon) 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - As a long time fan of The Red Balloon, I was looking forward to watching this film which is based on it. I was not disappointed. It's true joy.

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.

I give Le Ballon Bleu (The Blue Balloon) 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


SUPERHEROES

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
SUPERHEROES
RAFAEL DE ANDRADE
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - 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.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Adorable and one hundred percent relatable. This is a perfect film for a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival.

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!

I give Superheroes 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Adorable and one hundred percent relatable. This is a perfect film for a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival.

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!

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


REVOLUTIONARIES

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
REVOLUTIONARIES
CARLOS HUMBERTO TEJEDA
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Dressed as a revolutionary, Panchito, a little 9-year-old boy, finally arrives at his elementary school classroom only to realize that all the other children are wearing their uniform, now he must decide whether to face his classmates or hide.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really resonated with this short film, as it reminded me of similar experiences in my own young life. Well presented, this is perfect for our KIDS FIRST! Film Festival audiences.

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.

The film's message is how every small problem seems like a big deal when you are a young child and, looking back at it, we see the courage it took to overcome some situations. Bravo for Panchito. I give Revolutionaries 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really resonated with this short film, as it reminded me of similar experiences in my own young life. Well presented, this is perfect for our KIDS FIRST! Film Festival audiences.

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.

The film's message is how every small problem seems like a big deal when you are a young child and, looking back at it, we see the courage it took to overcome some situations. Bravo for Panchito. I give Revolutionaries 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BEYRO

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BEYRO
SOUREH CINEMA CENTER
Series: FOREIGN FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - The life story of Alireza Beyranvand, the successful Iranian soccer player who has tries a lot to be a hero.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - With an engaging storyline and enriching message, Beyro is a terrific, inspiring film for sports-lovers, especially in the wake of the 2022 World Cup.

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

I give Beyro 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - With an engaging storyline and enriching message, Beyro is a terrific, inspiring film for sports-lovers, especially in the wake of the 2022 World Cup.

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

I give Beyro 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 106 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


POWER FORWARD

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
POWER FORWARD
WEI HUNTER
Series: SHORT, AGES 8 - 12
Topic - Family
Description - 'Power Forward' is a family-friendly short film about a pre-teen boy who moves into a new neighborhood in the American South, and his struggle with the bullying and racism that he encounters there. This passion-project short film is bilingual because many students AND families are bilingual. We believe it is our duty as artists to help kids share their stories and allow them to be heard.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very powerful short film and excellent topic, well told. A family-friendly short film about a pre-teen boy who moves into a new neighborhood in the American South, and his struggle trying to fit in.

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.

The film's message is that change is never easy, but it is well worth the effort. I give Power Forward 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Very powerful short film and excellent topic, well told. A family-friendly short film about a pre-teen boy who moves into a new neighborhood in the American South, and his struggle trying to fit in.

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.

The film's message is that change is never easy, but it is well worth the effort. I give Power Forward 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BROWNWHITE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BROWNWHITE
RUCHAMA EHRENHALT
Series: FOREIGN STUDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - From the perspective of Israeli biracial kids, BrownWhite explores how skin color influences the development of identity. Weaving their lived experiences with findings from academic research, the film reveals their dilemmas around identity in a world that's more complicated than brown or white. From Israel
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - BrownWhite is a short informational film that I enjoyed watching; it is simple and straightforward, feeding you with relevant information about biracial children and clearing common misunderstanding that many tend to have.

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 concept behind BrownWhite is to inform and teach people to be more understanding when talking to a biracial person and to respect the choices they make regarding their racial identity. It also encourages biracial kids to embrace their true identity and be happy with who they are, rather than who they are not. I give Brown/White 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. I recommend this for the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. By Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - BrownWhite is a short informational film that I enjoyed watching; it is simple and straightforward, feeding you with relevant information about biracial children and clearing common misunderstanding that many tend to have.

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 concept behind BrownWhite is to inform and teach people to be more understanding when talking to a biracial person and to respect the choices they make regarding their racial identity. It also encourages biracial kids to embrace their true identity and be happy with who they are, rather than who they are not. I give Brown/White 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. I recommend this for the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. By Eunnet C., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


ROCKING IN THE WIND

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
ROCKING IN THE WIND
ALISSA SOPHIE LARKAMP
Series: FOREIGN ANIMATED SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - The little stone is at his place, they gets visitors and can experience the world at a different pace, but as they watches the wind - how it plays with leaves and pebbles by whirling them around - they no longer wants to sit still. Can the wind grant them theirs wish?
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Rocking in the Wind is an enjoyable short abstract animated film that would fare well with a youth audience.

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.

The film's message is about wanting to make changes in your life. I give Rocking in the Wind 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Rocking in the Wind is an enjoyable short abstract animated film that would fare well with a youth audience.

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.

The film's message is about wanting to make changes in your life. I give Rocking in the Wind 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LOUPETOO

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LOUPETOO
SOUREH CINEMA CENTER
Series: FOREIGN FEATURE, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Mr. Kamali is the owner of a sanitarium who treat the patients by teaching them to make toys. The toys are creative, so they are very attractive for the children. But the toy studio shut because of sabotage and it led to patients' critical mental status. Mr. Kamali tried a lot to solve the problem but he couldn't do anything and he got terribly disappointed and sad. And then an angel of hope appeared...
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Mr. Kamali is the owner of a sanitarium which treats patients by teaching them how to make toys. The toys are creative, so they are very attractive for the children. But the toy studio shuts down due to sabotage and it leads to patients' critical mental status. Mr. Kamali tries to solve the problem, but he can't do anything and he gets terribly disappointed and sad. And then an angel of hope appears.

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.

The film's message is that help comes from unusual places at time, just accept it. I give Loupetoo 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mr. Kamali is the owner of a sanitarium which treats patients by teaching them how to make toys. The toys are creative, so they are very attractive for the children. But the toy studio shuts down due to sabotage and it leads to patients' critical mental status. Mr. Kamali tries to solve the problem, but he can't do anything and he gets terribly disappointed and sad. And then an angel of hope appears.

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.

The film's message is that help comes from unusual places at time, just accept it. I give Loupetoo 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 87 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO



NEW SEARCH

All content ©Copyright 1991-123 by Coalition for Quality Children's Media

Database search interactivity by NET MAN
Entertainment News for Kids:
Join KIDS FIRST! on Twitter Join KIDS FIRST! on YouTube Join KIDS FIRST! on Instagram Join KIDS FIRST! on Tik Tok Join KIDS FIRST! on Facebook