Ages 2-5 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

Celeste (Pamella Rodrigues), the main character, wants to get home in time for her Mama's birthday, but she is stuck in a tower with a dragon (Alfredo Rollo) guarding her. Celeste convinces the dragon to go on an adventure out in the real world, but little does she know, the dragon has a sickness and to cure this sickness, there are two very important ingredients she needs. Will she find the ingredients and get home in time for her Mama's birthday? The film is from Brazil with dialogue in Portuguese with English subtitles.

I like how Celeste always tries to make things right when something is going wrong with someone else and how she cares about everyone. There is also never a moment where I took my eyes off the screen. This isn't the best animation, but I did like the bold and bright colors and the backgrounds. The scenes almost always show a wide shot of all the characters interacting with each other. For example, in one scene, when Celeste is trying to convince the Dragon to go on the adventure it is just the both of them not one or the other. There aren't any shots that really impressed me except when Celeste shows up at her first stop where she is going to help one of the other characters. The animated characters always wear the same thing in the whole film but the costumes suit the storyline well. The backgrounds in this movie are very pretty - on the Dragon and Celeste's adventure there are many types of weather and each of the backgrounds has different colors and settings. The only music of note is when Celeste is helping her first friend and is having a hard time fitting in, so Celeste helps her by letting her find her voice and telling her that everyone is different and has different types of appearances. There are only a few visual effects but they aren't very believable. For example, when one of the characters blows a candle out there is smoke coming from it, but the smoke doesn't look very realistic. I really enjoyed Pamella Rodrigues' voice acting of Celeste; she has the perfect voice for Celeste. Alfredo Rollo's voice of the Dragon is also exceptional. The characters grow throughout the story showing the great synergy between each other. The director, Fernando Macedo is to be commended for his work in telling the story of Celeste. My favorite character is Celeste; she is a little girl with a huge heart, a love of family and wants to help anyone she sees.

The film's message is to always look at life from another perspective and look at the beautiful side of things, other than just complaining and feeling upset about something. It promotes a great message and doesn't have one dull moment.

In this animated adventure, a group of plucky kids, known as the Creature Catchers, embarks on an exciting journey to witness their soccer heroes, Zlatan and Megan Rapinoe (voiced by themselves) in action. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they discover that the players have been mutated by a strange slimy slug concocted by the eccentric Weird Al (voiced by Weird Al Yankovic). Now the creature catchers must team up with superstars to thwart a monstrous creature created by the nefarious slime.

This movie is a true gem! The clever humor, stellar voice acting, and stunning animation make it a joyride from start to finish. The jokes had me laughing out loud, and the voice acting by the remarkable cast brings the characters to life in a way that is both entertaining and endearing. The animation is top notch, with vibrant visuals that capture the excitement of the soccer matches, and the chaos of the creature's rampage. Moreover, the underlying message of unity and camaraderie adds depth to the storyline, making it a film that resonates long after the credits roll. Watching the creature catchers and the soccer stars come together to overcome obstacles and defeat the common enemy is not only thrilling, but also uplifting. The Soccer Football Movie is a winner for both soccer fans and animation lovers.

The film's message is that teamwork makes the dreamwork, and that with support anything can get done.

I give The Soccer Football Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12; this film is available on most streaming platforms now, be sure to check it out.

Based on the true story of Mikeal Lindnord (Mark Wahlberg), the movie takes us on a thrilling ride as Mikeal and his group set out to win a race that will go down in history. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn when they encounter Arthur (Ukai), a lovable dog who becomes an integral part of their team.

What makes Arthur The King truly special is its ability to resonate with both dog lovers and non-dog lovers alike. The film's visuals are breathtakingly natural, capturing the beauty of the outdoors with stunning cinematography and seamless editing. It's evident that the crew poured their hearts into bringing this true story to life, and their dedication shines through in every frame. Mark Wahlberg's portrayal of Mikeal Lindnord is nothing short of remarkable. He exudes leadership and compassion, especially towards Arthur, which instantly endears him to the audience. Ukai's performance as Arthur adds depth and charm to the film, elevating it to new heights. One of the film's greatest strengths is its pacing. Despite its quick pace, Arthur The King never feels rushed. Instead, it effectively conveys the message of the film - that a dog truly is man's best friend - in a short amount of time, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

The message is "dog is man's best friend" and it serves as a reminder of the special connection between humans and dogs.

I give Arthur The King 4 out of 5 stars and highly recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults (and dog lovers.) This film is a heartwarming tale that will leave you laughing, crying, and ultimately feeling uplifted. Don't miss your chance to experience this emotional thrill ride when it hits theaters on March 15, 2024.

By David E., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Arthur the King is a great family film and a good movie with a strong main character and a heartwarming story. However, even with all these great aspects, the greatest part of this film is the dog.

The story focuses on Mikael Linord (Mark Wahlberg) is a renowned adventure racer who has a lot of medals but has never won the championship. He tries to get back into the sport that he loves, but along comes a furry friend to help him overcome his fears and possibly win the championship. The team adopts the dog and the adventure begins.

Arthur the King does everything right. To start off the protagonist, Mikael goes through a simple but great character journey, starting off the film as someone who refuses to listen to other people's point of view but grows as a person learning to consider others ideas by the end. Mikael isn't the only thing that makes this film good-- it's also a heartwarming story about family. If you're looking for a good film you can see with your family this is the one--you'll be happy watching this film. You may feel a little sad but mostly you'll be rooting for the characters to succeed. And Arthur the dog will win you over. The filmmakers make sure you love Arthur and hope that it never gets hurt and that it succeeds. That leads to us getting invested in this dog, and in Mikael's story, which creates strong emotional moments.

The theme of Arthur the King is that sometimes you have one goal and yet achieving that goal isn't necessarily the most important thing in your life. The theme is portrayed by Mikael as learns that his goal isn't what's most important to him--it's what he has that he takes for granted.

I give Arthur the King 3.5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters March 15, 2024.

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

Park Slope Panics follows a dog owner who takes his dog to the park. The dog sees a rabbit and runs off wreaking havoc around the park, ruining a picnic, and causing another dog to get loose. The film is short and it's certainly a good watch.

It's cute and, because it's so short and stop-motion at that, there's not a whole lot of leeway to fully develop a story. This one is interesting and, given the time constraints, delivers. I'm a big fan of stop motion films and this is well put together. The movement of the dog running through the streets and even some of the swift movements and face changes of the LEGOS hit home. I love the use of sound effects in the film, from objects and movements in the town, to the dog barking. The sounds are realistic; you can tell they were self-produced which makes it cool, especially since it shows the commitment of the filmmaker to create unique sounds. There isn't much voice acting, just exclamatory sounds from the characters, the dog barking, and some small speaking lines. The creator, Jack, is the writer, director, editor, animator and star. His work speaks for itself - it's terrific. As someone who loves watching those kinds of films, I was impressed at the high quality of the stop motion work, and look forward to seeing more from Jack. My favorite part is just the stop motion LEGOS. This film doesn't have much of a message - it just follows a dog chasing a rabbit around a park. Perhaps the message is to keep an eye on your pets at a park because bad things can happen.

This film starts off with breaking news: tape is being stolen from around the world! Soon, everyone relies on the town superhero, Cardboard Man. Along his journey, Cardboard Man encounters different people that help him find out who is stealing all of the tape. Can Cardboard Man stop this villain?

I like how, even though the film is 5 1/2 minutes, the producers manage to fit the entire plot of the film in, without cutting any important parts. It is very interesting to see how well all of the scenes fit together. The cinematography is great! I like how, in two different scenes, they make the movements of the first scene happen just before the second one starts. For example, in the scene with the three kids playing, the first scene shows the boy pointing his hand up, and then the scene afterwards shows the same action but he is starting to talk to his sister.

The costumes definitely fit the time period in this movie because, since it is set in the present time, the people are dressed like how people dress now. For example, in the beginning of the news scene, the news reporter is dressed exactly like how a news reporter on WBAL would dress. The locations suit the story since this helps watchers understand where the story is happening. For example, when Cardboard Man is talking to his neighbor at his house, the neighborhood helps the watcher understand that Cardboard Man is not talking to a person at the grocery store. The sound effects help develop the story because, surprisingly enough, they make you understand what Cardboard Man is thinking. For example, if you hear a 'ding', you understand that Cardboard Man agrees with something another person said.

There isn't much character growth in this, but one of the characters that is well written is Feta Thunberg (Mollie Weiss) because she has a certain "villain" charm that I like. She is evil, but she also acts nice. I like the theme song that the music composer (Ruth Weiss) made because it is a simple yet interesting song. My favorite character is Feta Thunberg because, as soon as she is introduced, she makes it clear that she does not want Cardboard Man to be successful, which is great because it shows she is confident in her actions.

I liked how the story continues to get more suspenseful every minute, it really hooked me in. The cinematography is excellent, I like the shots showing the girls walking up the stairs in a trance, it looks suspenseful. The sets and locations are great! Since it's Halloween and the kids are out trick-or-treating, it makes sense that the girls are at another house. The background music makes the film seem a lot more suspenseful. I also love the music at the end, when the witches are running away; it signifies that the problem is over. There are plenty of visual effects - ghosts and monsters - and they are all incredible. It feels that both girls earned more confidence throughout the film. At first, they were afraid of the witches, but in the end, the girls know what to do and are very clever on how to escape them. The costume designer did an amazing job, especially with the Halloween costumes. They resemble the Halloween costumes I wore when I was younger. My favorite part of the film is when the girls dress up as werewolves to scare the witches away. That is funny and adorable!

The message of this film is that perseverance is everything. Without perseverance, the girls would not have made it out of the house and escaped from the witches.

The film features two squid that dance around the screen. That's it. No storyline beyond that.

The animation is acceptable and would work well at a film festival as an interstitial.

This film is certainly impactful in outlining climate change, its causes, and offers some amazing solutions on how to fix the world in which we live. The animated characters easily captivate and educate viewers making this a perfect film for elementary classrooms.

Can Hydroponic Farming Help Reduce the Effects of Climate Change? Is an animated short film which presents viewers with the problem of climate change and reasons for which it is occurring. Worried for their future on Earth, Rachel and her robot friend Rex ponder ways to improve the world that they live in. Rex's alien encounter and the journey that they take allows the robot to get a first hand perspective on the need for immediate change on Earth.

The title of this film is somewhat misleading as I expected to learn more about the technique of hydroponics as a solution to global warming. The story line is excellent, however most of the film focuses on climate change, rather than on hydroponics. I enjoyed the way in which the information is presented and the animation is perfect for early learners. The animation is engaging, making it fun for young viewers. The characters are effective in bringing focus and detail to the problems our generation is facing and easily allows kids to understand the bigger picture. Camera angles on the characters are eye level which are great allowing viewers to more easily connect with them.

The animated characters are brightly dressed and have an intriguing look to them. All characters appear sci-fi which are perfect for the story line. The animators mixed it up a bit by adding a variety of life forms as characters; humans, robots and aliens. Backgrounds include Earth, other planets, and outer space all of which are creative and very interesting. The other planets and outer space backgrounds are imaginative which helps to hold our interest. Those backgrounds depict a very depleted world plagued with overcrowding, pollution, and deforestation and send a powerful message to viewers. The choice of music for both the intro and outro doesn't seem to fit the film. Something more sci-fi or techno may have fit the film better. Other music throughout was appropriate, especially when giving scientific meanings of concepts being explained. Animated characters show good emotion allowing connection to viewers. Rachel is full of fear for the unknown and delivers her concerns appropriately given the circumstances. The alien in an attempt to give a call to action to make change for Earthlings, speaks in a monotone and direct manner which gives great importance to his words. Star power goes to Rex the robot, as he delivers great knowledge to viewers in such a fun and expressive way. It is obvious that director Kevin Leadingham has a true passion for entertaining, educating, and making positive change. This is an impactful short film that I hope finds its way into elementary classrooms everywhere. This film delivers such important education in a fun way and the film's message of making positive change is critical for future generations. Although I absolutely love the film's message, the animation, and the problems addressing climate change, I question whether the production values are high enough to screen it on the big screen. Its use might be restricted to online or classroom type viewing. Also, the title is misleading. The film's focus is more on the impact of climate change rather than on the solution of hydroponics. My favorite part of the film is its message which addresses the need for change. Humans are depleting valuable resources on Earth and if we are to make positive change for future generations, change is critical. Several solutions with proven positive results are possible but change starts with each of us.

This high school student film starts following a young girl named Rose (Rose Borden) who asks her grandpa for a bedtime story. Her grandpa agrees, and tells Rose about how grandparents shrink as they get older. Rose goes to bed, afraid, and wakes up the next morning not knowing where Grandpa is.

This film is definitely kid-friendly, and it resembles a "perfect" weekend with the grandparents. I like the suspense in the storyline. It makes good use of how dialogue with children can be confusing at times when grandpa tells Rose that older people start shrinking. That causes Rose to have nightmares and then, when she wakes up, we don't know where Grandpa has disappeared to, which starts a small adventure for her and us. The camera work is quite good and makes use of medium shots, long shots and close-ups. . One shot that stands out to me is when Rose is tossing and turning in her sleep. The camera really captures the worry on her face as she is sleeping. The sets and locations suit the story. I like how they contributed to Rose trying to find her grandpa, since she goes to a few different places searching for him - his bedroom, the pier, and other places. The sound effects stand out to me. When Rose is walking, she steps on a raspberry and it makes a squishing sound. This makes the audience think she squished something, and it made me think that perhaps Rose stepped on Grandpa! There isn't much character growth shown with any of the characters, but I love how, in the end, Rose realizes she didn't squish Grandpa. The costumes all stand out for me; they remind me of what I wore when I went to my grandparents' house. My favorite part of the film is when Grandpa comes back home, because it is so heartwarming to see Rose hugging her grandpa, knowing he is alright.

The film's message is to never jump to conclusions. Rose immediately thinks she squished her grandpa, which made her very worried, until she found out that he was okay.

How to Make a Film About My Son, Jack explores the complexities of a filmmaker trying to make a film about his young son. This documentary is a love letter from a father to his son - a snapshot in time.

The production quality is quite good with lots of beautiful shots, good lighting and good audio. The documentary is supposedly about Jack but, in reality, the story is more about the father and him experiencing fatherhood. Jack is an adorable subject. He does not effectively communicate at his age so the graphic interpretation of his communication on screen is most welcome. We see how much Jack enjoys flowers and, in fact, flower was one of his first words. I love the focus of some of the shots, especially those from Jack's perspective that are shot low to the ground. For example, Jack is running to pluck a dandelion and the camera is solely focused on the dandelion until Jack arrives and his hand grabs the flower. It's one of my favorite shots. The background music by Benjamin Pawlak is very soothing and fits this documentary quite well. The sound mix throughout the film is very good and the dialogue is very clear. The film's progression is a little confusing because the film starts showing Jack walking and running and then later shows him as an infant and beginning to crawl - later, it reverts to scenes of him walking and running once again. The film is directed and narrated by Michael Plewa, who is also Jack's father. My favorite scenes are those showing Jack's happiness as he looks and touches various flowers and other natural foliage.

Three friends, Roy (Kyle Collesano), Gee (Peter Jurado) and Biv (Leah Voysey), start off the show by getting today's activity delivered: paints! They learn how to mix paints, paint on a canvas, and meet three new friends who are professional artists.

The plot is very adorable; it is so cute to see the puppets struggle with their portraits, and in the end they look lovely. The storyline is similar to Elmo's World but they add the twist of having multiple puppets. The camera work is a bit shaky at times - there are often white streaks across the screen, and the quality is very pixelated. Not only does the video need work but the audio is second rate. It is muffled at times and I have to strain my ears to hear. The puppets are adorable and their appearances fit their names. I like how colorful the artist's outfits are. The set was mediocre, with just a black curtain and a black table; however the artist studios' are beautiful and I love seeing their artwork displayed. The voice acting for Biv is stellar. Leah Vysey completely portrays the posh and bossy puppet and is, without a doubt, my favorite character! The screenplay is impeccable. The most outstanding part of the film is when Maria Lomboni (one of the artists) starts talking about how you should never give up and that all art is beautiful because everybody's style is different, so there is no 'wrong' way in art.

The film's message is about exploring new hobbies and having fun while doing it.

The film explores an outdoor area that children use to explore and play. The audience listens to the children as they explain how they interact with nature and express their joy while doing so.

Denise Sheridan (preschool owner) and Rachel Doolin (film director) have created an outstanding collaboration that shows the importance of unstructured play in a natural setting. There isn't really a plot, or linear storyline. It is more of a descriptive piece about an area where children play. The camera shows many areas of the play place and includes interesting closeups of things such as flowers and bees. The set is paramount to the storyline. I enjoyed the introduction and outro music. In the intro and outro there is a scene with mini fairy boots and a welcome sign - at the beginning I wondered if the film would be about fairies and "their land," however, that is not the case. The subjects in the film are children and they accurately describe the space in the film and how they feel about being there. They feel happy, curious and joyful. I enjoyed listening to the children talking about where bugs live, singing about the different kinds of dirt and expressing their joy for the log walk.

The film's message is about the importance of unstructured play in a natural setting that supports children's curiosity and learning.

A young girl Kiki has finally saved up enough money to be able to buy her favorite treat, the Kool Cup. But the Candy Lady runs out. Kiki must figure out how to get her hands on the sweet treat in a kind and effective way.

The story is simple and lends itself to a clean, animated short film. The emotions of the characters are highly relatable for young kids watching the film. The animation is a high point of this short piece. Jide Johnson's past work on Cartoon Network, the BBC and Sony Animation Pictures is evident as they craft a spellbinding story through visuals. Each frame is vibrant and clear, while also not seeming too cookie-cutterish. The backgrounds are vibrant in classic cartoon style and suit the storyline. In scenes where there's no dialogue, the music conveys the feelings of the characters and sets the pace of the film; my favorite parts of the musical score were when Kiki's worry, her happiness, and her mother's surprise were each expressed solely through rhythm. Sky Raylyn Warren plays Kiki -- she's the star of the film, despite it being named for Arnecia Ward's character, The Candy Lady. Warren commits to the role and her voiceovers fit her role as a young, spunky girl. Ward's minimal screen time doesn't mean she has any less of an impact; as the only other named character, she drives the action for much of the short film. The animator deserves all the praise in the world, as does Taylor Walker who directs and produced this piece. The execution is clean and flawless! I love the ending scene with Kiki and The Candy Lady -- I won't spoil it for you, but it's really charming and heartwarming.

The film's message is that kindness and patience both pay off!

The storyline follows a group of middle aged friends playing a game in one of their home's basements. The game unfolds while they decide every move the characters can make. There are animated maps that show the path to the castle, where they intend to defeat a dragon.

I like the parallel storyline between the group of friends playing the game, and deciding on the plot, and the actual game or story they play and make decisions for. I also like how we see them "teleport" into the time and place they are discussing. I like how it looks like visual storytelling. The quality of this film is great; it's a combination of animation and real live action. The animated segments are very cool. I really like how realistic the monsters look when the characters are battling them. There is use of low camera angles and some high camera angles that show off the medieval creatures - for example, the fighting the monster at the bridge. The costumes are pretty cool, especially the medieval costumes and weapons. The location in the basement suits the storyline, and for the animated parts, the castle and bridge suit the story. The medieval songs are lovely and go with the medieval story. There is also suspenseful music that plays when the characters are fighting the monster. The electric guitar music in the battle scene with the dragon also stands out. It's a great contrast and suits the video game experience. As for special effects - towards the end of the film, while fighting the dragon, two of the characters show special powers in their hands. Lighting comes out of their hands, and we also see fireworks coming out of the wand of one of the characters. It looks realistic and believable. I think the green screens are little bit obvious at times, but overall it looks pretty realistic. The monsters are very defined and that really stands out. My favorite part has to be the introduction to the characters with the stop motion and cool backgrounds. It really intrigued me to watch because of the interactive experience and video game effect.

The film's message is to never give up and fight to the end. Be aware that there are some scenes of violence. When the characters are battling the monster, they are throwing arrows at it, and in the end they slay the Dragon.

The storyline follows a young Harp seal living in the harsh but beautiful environment of the Arctic who is fearful of the water. As he watches the other seals play in the water, his mom gently nudges him toward the edge of the ice. But no, he scampers away in fear. Finally, he gathers enough courage to join the other seals and discovers the joys of swimming in the ocean.

This animated short is a joy to watch and quite suitable for younger viewers who can relate to the young pup's fearfulness perhaps. The animation is crisp, the movement of the characters flows easily and the colors are beautiful. The background music by Henry Cavalier perfectly suits the film's story. This would make a wonderful interstitial at any KIDS FIRST! film festival.

The film's message is about overcoming your fears and discovering the joys on the other side of them.

The film follows dancers exploring the exterior and interior of the Santa Ana train station when they are stranded there during a hurricane.

The production quality of this short film is exceptional and I really enjoyed the dancing and the location. Great choreography. I loved the dancing and the costumes. The 14 young dancers are quite proficient and truly a joy to watch. The cinematography under the direction of Director of Photography, Leandro Glory Damasco Jr., is very good. I especially enjoyed the views of the rotunda from the top while girls are dancing below and the reverse scenes looking up when the girls' movements are synchronized at the top levels of the rotunda. The costumes are outstanding and simple - each of the dancer's costume is unique yet they are all similar in look - loose pants, cropped sleeveless t's and sports bras - all within the same color family that blends well with the scenery so the focus is not on the costumes but on the dancers and the station. The white sneakers draw your attention to the movement of their feet. The Santa Ana train station is quite beautiful and the film utilizes it beautifully through the cinematography and choreography showcasing both the building's interior and exterior. The music by Reinis Ozolins is perfect and fits with the rain in the storyline. The only thing that is slightly off is that it seems the rain would have been more violent rather than the mild rain we see, since the story is supposed to be taking place during a hurricane. There is no dialogue in this short films and no specific characters or speakers - the dancers are expressive through their movements. Kudos to director, writer, producer and choreographer Gunta Liepina-Miller for an extraordinary film. My favorite scene is the dance the girls perform in the top sections of the rotunda which is filmed from below. It almost reminds me of a kaleidoscope.

The film's message is to explore life and its possibilities, even when the unexpected happens. The journey is as important as the destination.

Needlz and Skratch are puppet siblings who have a lot of fun solving problems within their workshop, which revolves around music and instruments. In this film, Needlz gets Skratch a surprise, but they can't seem to figure out how to open the box to see what's inside. They realize that they have to solve various problems and do different tasks in order to unlock and open the box, revealing Skratch's surprise.

The film is cute and the plot clever and fun and it's perfect for preschoolers who would find it funny and engaging. It's an interesting blend of animation, live action and puppets. The animation is very colorful and the use of color carries over to Needlz and Skratch's costumes as well as their workshop area where the various instruments introduce a wide spectrum of colors to the screen. In addition, the little details of the characters and backgrounds make the film all the more interesting and add depth to what's happening. While the backgrounds can be a little bit bland at times, they are always colorful and don't take away from the action and dialogue of the film.. There is a lot of featured music and some sound effects. The music is fun and exciting and pretty juvenile, which is perfect for its audience. It's also creatively incorporated into the story of the film, not just thrown in at random points. With the story revolving around music and instruments, it's cool to see these instruments come to life and the different scenarios that cause the characters or instruments to break out in song. Voiceover actor Melissa Lugo uses a very loud and nasally tone as Needlz. While this helps grab the audience's attention, it can get a bit annoying. Willie L. Harper also has an energetic voice over as Skratch, keeping the audience engaged. These characters don't have much growth over the course of the film. My favorite part of this film is the music. The featured music really stands out as the strongest aspect. It's engaging and fun, and grabbed my attention right away. The musical numbers where the instruments come to life are so fun, and are definitely my favorite part of this film.

This film's messages are about kindness, being friendly and kind, having fun, and using cooperation for teamwork skills.

This film starts off with a young girl named Anka (Laura Kunda Gustavsson), who tries to fit in with her classmates, but they snub and ignore her and make fun of her. As Anka struggles to make friends, an alien named Dominik (Lun Ble c) comes down to Earth and offers to play with her. The two of them have a lot of fun together, and soon Anka asks Dominik to be her friend.

This live action film from Croatia is based around children and close friends. The actors are all elementary school children and they are adorable. In the beginning, Anka is an "outsider" who is ignored and made fun of at school by her classmates, and she is afraid that she can't make any friends. After she meets Dominik, her mood changes and she becomes so much happier. Their relationship grows rapidly as we watch them play games outside and read books together. One of my favorite scenes is when they are sitting side by side reading and they choreographically change position in unison. Later, they are both coloring something and when they hold up what they were coloring, they have both created half a heart, which they put together to make one heart. It is at this point when the camera shows the librarian watching her and does not see Dominic and we wonder, is Dominik an imaginary friend? It's sort of irrelevant because his presence serves Anka in bringing out her personal happiness. I love how Dominik comes into Anka's life just as the bullying by the other classmates is starting to wear thin. I like how Anka and Dominik's friendship is presented throughout the film. We see how both of them are equally happy to have a new friend, since both are struggling to fit in. I like how, when Dominik arrives at Earth, the first angle you get of him isn't his face, which adds some mysteriousness. The costumes suit the storyline. Dominik's antennae stand out, as they show that he clearly is not from Earth. Since the location is mainly the school building and campus, and the main characters are students, they suit the story. The music sets the mood of Anka and Dominik's friendship. It is light, happy music, which perfectly symbolizes their friendship. There are a few special effects in the beginning of the film, when Dominik arrives on Earth. They are effective, because they show the audience that Dominik is not human. I like the costumes for the film because they remind me of my peers at school. That's good because that means the costumes resemble what students wear today. My favorite part of the film is when Anka and Dominik meet. When Anka realizes she has a friend, it is very heartwarming. I also love the scene at the end showing Anka and Dominik a little later - older - and they have a fleeting glimpse of each other which makes them both smile.

The film's message is that no matter what, you can always find a friend in someone.

This short film follows a young boy, Nico, who is hit by a baseball while he's watching some other kids play. He is sent into the woods to retrieve the ball and gets more than he thought as he meets a giant robot there. Terrified, he begins to run away, stumbles and falls to the ground. The Iron Robot finds the ball and rolls it over to the kid and a new friendship seems to be in the works.

I am particularly impressed by the animation in this film. It is well made with flawless movement. The color palette is very subtle, just like the story. I love the facial expressions on Nico, especially his eyes. And, of course, the robot in the woods reminds me of one of my all time favorite films by Brad Bird, The Iron Giant. This robot is a much simpler version, but has good detailing. Note should be given to the composer because the background music is outstanding and, since most of the film is non-narrative, it plays a critical role in creating the right atmosphere for the story to take place. Nico's voice is perfect for his character. Nice work overall, particularly for a college student film, but it holds up among professional films as well.

The film's message is about developing friendships in the most unusual places.

Filmmaker, thirteen-year-old Oliver interviews family and locals in Greece and Turkey about food and culture. The film's format is documentary style.

This is a fun and informative documentary which focuses primarily on Greek culture and food. It features interviews by local people who express their love of their country and their food. I love the comment by Ion Simonides that "Greek culture and food are inseparable." He compares the concept of food in Greece to the "farm to table" movement in the US. Elder Yanni Simidea shares his wisdom while talking with young Lennon Sempere as they watch food being prepared. The camera work is very well done - clear and well lit. The audio is also captured quite well. Kudos to the young filmmaker for all of that. The locations are stunningly gorgeous and made me want to return to Greece as soon as possible. We visit Naxos, a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean and then move on to Istanbul Turkey where Ali, a Turkish tour guide shares his love for his country. Turkish food rivals the Greek food in its freshness and, perhaps the thing that makes it stand out it is the large array of spices that are used. The film is richly enhanced by traditional Greek folk music in the background, which made me feel as if I was right there along with Olivier. This film does not go in depth into the food and culture of either of these countries, but it definitely makes a statement that sparked my interest enough to want to go visit myself, or at least explore Greek and Turkish cuisine in my own community.

The film really serves as an excellent introduction to Greek and Turkish food and culture.

In the cold of winter, an unexpected snowstorm poses an inescapable challenge. Faced with the icy cave entrance, the rabbits need to make plan about how to make it through the winter. The Rabbits invite their neighbors to join them so everyone is safe from the cold weather. We see the benefits of collaborating with your neighbor the greater good of the community.

This stop action short film is quite simple and quite lovely - both in terms of its visual appeal and its story. The bunnies and bird appear to be made out of white felt fabric or something similar, which gives them a very soft look that makes you want to cuddle with them. Their movements are pretty smooth, which is not easy with stop motion The background is very simple - with the tree and the forest around them. When the entrance to their home is iced over they realize that winter has truly struck and they scurry to finalize their preparations, and invite their neighbors to join them. Shades of teamwork and community come across here - all done with movement and background music as there is no narrative.

The film's message is about being prepared and being kind.

The storyline follows a little turtle who is learning how to live his life on his own, but is he prepared to handle the hardest situations? A problem appears and the lost turtle has to count on an unexpected friend to save him.

I like how the film shows and teaches us how a family needs to behave- a family needs love, and support in the worst situations. As we watch the film, we see that they really define what a family is. This is an animation film and the animation is outstanding. The characters' movements are very well defined, and everything is very well designed. For example, the illustrations of the little turtles walking and how the sea is created all show off the skill of the animators. This film is non narrative; the only sounds are of the ocean or sometimes background music. For example, when the turtles are experiencing difficult moments there's a thriller melody playing in the background. In the beginning, we see a tiny turtle, which is insecure and can't resolve its problems and as the story develops, the turtle is able to help himself and others, being a fearless one. My favorite part is when all the turtle family members come together to save the family.

The film's message is a reminder that you are never alone and you should always accept the help of good people.

This animated feature film is set along the diverse, picturesque, and ever-changing backdrop of the great Monarch butterfly migration. We follow a lovable, but inept one-winged butterfly, named Patrick, who stows away in a milkweed trailer in order to be part of the journey. Joined by his best friend, a caterpillar named Marty, and Jennifer, Patrick becomes an unlikely hero but first has to overcome his own challenges.

Beautiful animation! I love the butterfly characters. They are exquisitely detailed with cleverly defined personalities. Directed by Sophie Roy, who has delivered over 70 hours of series television, three 3D feature films, websites and two VR projects as a line producer. Produced by Marie-Claude Beauchamp for CarpeDiem and Ulysses' Emely Christians. Award-winning and Grammy-nominated Canadian pop singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes' original song "Something Big" is featured on the soundtrack. The voice talent includes Tatania Maslany as Jennifer (She-Hulk, Trollhunters, Rise of the Titans, Bite Size Halloween) and Mena Massoud as Patrick (Aladdin, Aladdin 2, The Royal Treatment).

I love the costumes of the butterfly people; they integrate typical clothing details on a butterfly body. The closeups of their faces are unsurpassed and the voice talent is equally matched. At times this film reminds me of Avatar or Ferngully. It is right up there. My favorite scene is the victory dancing scene at the end with great music and joyful dancing.

The film's message is about how our differences are less important than the bonds we share.

Ada is a little girl living in a village where it has not rained for a long time. Ada's family is considering leaving the village if lack of water continues to be a problem. Ada is very upset about this and tells us about her village. She visiting a lake that used to be full of water and goes to the island named after her. But she sees that the lake is completely dry, the soil is cracked and there is no water left in it.

This is a very sad story, a sad film, and one that is going on all too often in today's world as the impact of climate change affects us all. Ada and her family, her community, are not alone. Watching her walk across the parched earth, where a lake used to be, is heart wrenching. One asks where all this is leading to.

The film's message is an environment one about the absence of water across the globe.

Created by 9-year-old Sloan Gregory, Not So Happy Birthday is about the disappointments experienced on Ruby's (Celine Chalifoux) seventh birthday. The day starts out perfectly, but quickly goes downhill with a series of unfortunate events. Ruby is reminded about what is really important to celebrate.

I really like how Ruby handles initial disappointments. After she feels her party and day is ruined, Libby (Sloan B Gregory) helps her with some insightful and meaningful sentiments and the rest of the party returns back to the celebration her day started with. I love the close-up shots of her guests as her disappointment unfolds. The background music has a great beat and contributes to the celebratory feeling throughout the film. Ruby shows excitement and disappointment as her character progresses throughout her birthday celebration. She interacts well with all of the cast and enjoys her private moment with Libby. Writer, director and visionary Sloan B Gregory brings this story to life exquisitely. My favorite scene is the meaningful and inspirational dialogue between Ruby and Libby after Ruby's disappointment escalates.

The film's message is that it is okay to experience disappointment but important to remember what is truly important; in this case spending time with family and friends.

The storyline follows Ayaan, who learns of his Grandfather's dream of being an actor when he was younger; makes a YouTube channel featuring him and gets 100 fans for him.

Sweet and unassuming, this shows such a great relationship between the boy and his grandfather. Well made with clear camera work, audio recording, editing and background music. It's really a delightful short.

We know that Olivia is gifted and that Olivia knows she's gifted. Because we're familiar with the genre, we don't need to see or hear about her social awkwardness too many times. Her snarkiness seems a little beyond her age and she doesn't need to tell us that she doesn't have any friends. We get that. It's Olivia's obsession with time travel as a way of re-capturing the past that makes us root for her not feel sorry for her. It's also what makes this story different from other genius-kid stories. It is that wonderfully creative mind that we want to see in action - hence my comment about adding scenes where we see her working on Dippy and developing more of a relationship with her.

The hospital crisis should be less about how bright Olivia is and more about how her inner child is trying to cope using her prodigious brain. This is the place where Olivia suddenly realizes that she doesn't know as much as she thinks she does - and - more importantly, a place in the story where she's not thinking about herself anymore. She's worried for her father. It's easy to let a character run out of control and run off their mouth. It's fun to write, but the dialog must serve the story and not serve as a showcase for any one character, especially if they're the protagonist and especially if the writer wants the audience to like that character. This is where we learn to 'kill our darlings' - in other words, cut out pieces of dialog or action that don't move the story forward even though we may personally think they're brilliant.

The dialog about patients' families and diastolic pressure is cute, as is the piece about celery seeds; telling the doctor to address her as Dr. Olivia, is a bit much in a crisis situation. It's disrespectful and doesn't endear her to us. And the line "I've already hurt you enough, Daddy" is puzzling, seems nonsequitous. When did she hurt him?

When dad comes home in a completely different condition, it's clear that everything's changed and that her fantasy can never happen. It's then that Olivia grows up a little more. The ending is very emotional and slightly overwritten but is probably exactly what happened. Ray of Sun is a good story that needs a little tightening with an eye toward what the camera sees and some judicious editing to keep the dialog on track telling the story about growing up.

The storyline follows a boy named Orion (Jacob Temblay). Orion is terrified of the dark until one night an entity named Dark comes to his house to show him there is no reason to be afraid. He takes Orion with him to show him his job. In the process, Dark takes Orion to see the other night entities. Everytime he goes to see all the night entities' jobs he ends up messing them up. Orion explains to the other night entities how Light is amazing and Dark is bad. Dark overhears him and thinks nobody likes him. All the other night entities quit because they want to see how the Light is. Dark has to do his job all by himself now. Dark doesn't want to do his job alone so he goes into the light and disappears. Orion gets all the night entities back together to save Dark. To do that dream goes in his imagination and finds Dark there. In the end Orion likes the dark and appreciates them now because without dark it was too light.

My favorite part of this film is when Dark takes Orion to see his job. I think it is so cool to see Dark and Orion fly through the sky. I also enjoy watching the night entities doing their job. I especially love Dream's job. It is amazing how Dream goes into people's imagination and makes their dreams out of something that has happened in their life. It is very surprising when the audience realizes that Orion and the Dark is a story that future Orion is telling his daughter, explaining how he gets over his fear of the dark.

The film's message is to face your fears because if you don't you will miss out on life. At the end, Orion faces his fear! He just does it and he feels better. He feels like he can accomplish and do anything now.

I give Orion And The Dark 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. This film starts streaming on Netflix February 2, 2024.

The story follows the annual holiday seasonal competition in El Segundo, CA, known as Candy Cane Lane where neighbors fiercely compete for best decorated house. This year's competition is amped up with the promise of a $100K prize wife (Tracee Ellis Ross), daughter Joy (), son Nick (Thaddeus J. Mixon and younger daughter Holly (Madison Thomas) aren't quite on board until they learn the severity of the situation.

Madison Thomas definitely steals the show as her dad's sidekick, following him into the popup mysterious and somewhat ominous Christmas shop called Kringle's hidden away under a freeway overpass. Another show stopper is Pepper (Jillian Bell), the shop owner whose ethics are questionable from the get go. Then, there are the magical little village people - Pip (Nick Offerman), Cordelia (Robin Thede), Gary (Christ Redd) and a group of seemingly innocent carolers who burst into song with the slightest provocation. The twisted tale of how Pepper has connived capturing these little people unravels as the plot develops. My favorite part is the 12 Days of Christmas "tree" that Chris falls for and brings home only to learn that each of the elements becomes real - and real enough to be real problems. All of a sudden seven swans are swimming in the Carver's pool. Geese are laying eggs while air borne and dropping them on innocent bystanders, like Carver's wife! Pipers are piping and dancing in the street; drummers are drumming and making pests of themselves. All this madcap craziness comes to a head as Chris hustles to complete his tasks of gathering the golden rings before the magic hour, only to discover minutes before that the number of rings he thought he needed to procure, was vastly underestimated, since the song repeats them with each round and it's 40, not 5 that he needs to collect or become one of the little village people that Pepper bosses around. However the family rallies, Santa shows up, and ultimately, the good guys win and the bad guys are punished.

The film's message really comes down to the importance of family. As Chris tells his family, "everything I do I do for you." And they come to understand that is really true.

I give Candy Cane Lane 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, or those who are kids at heart. It is available now on Prime Video so, check it out. I promise you'll get some good laughs out of it.

The Canterville Ghost is about an innovative American family of five moving to England into a manor which has been deemed haunted by all those who previously lived there. The oldest and only daughter of the three kids encounters the Canterville ghost first, but since she does not want to be there she hatches a plan to have the ghost (who she ultimately befriends) scare her family so they move back home. Since the family's dad is a scientist, he is not afraid of the ghost; neither is his wife; and the kids enjoy playing with the ghost and pranking him as well. Ultimately, the daughter helps the ghost achieve everlasting rest and falls in love with one of the royal members of England.

Overall, this is a great film. I enjoyed the part where the boys are not afraid of the ghost and, in an effort to have fun, play with the ghost's head and use it as a football when trying to care for him. I enjoyed how Virginia was willing to go into the locked garden to help the ghost leave the mortal world and rest with his love (who has died). I love that the film has an interesting storyline -- something to always look forward to and delightful plot twists. For example, the maid whose family had lived in Canterville castle for generations believed the ghost had murdered his wife. It is later found out he was sabotaged by a member of the royal family generations ago who wanted to take over his castle. It is funny when the maid says she is not to speak of the story about the ghost's wife and then immediately spills the story as if they had begged to hear it. I believe a child would enjoy this film because it is humorous, the animation and graphics are well put together, and it is a story about ghosts, friendship, forgiveness, and love.

The movie flows very well. The film definitely draws the viewer in and one cannot help but be empathetic of the characters feelings and emotions. In the first part, there is a scene showing the person who lived there before Virginia's family who is scared of the ghost and is driven insane. In the next scene when the family moves in, the maid explains how everyone who has previously lived there was driven insane and continuously yells. This makes the viewer want to continue watching the movie to see how the ghost will torment the American family that has moved in. The screenplay and characters develop very well. The dad starts off, and remains, a logical scientist who does not fear ghosts. The boys are playful and fun and continue to blame each other for their shenanigans. Virginia goes from being homesick to falling in love with Henry, a member of the royal family.

The visual quality is amazing. The scenes are colorful, contrasting and interesting. It is very interesting to see one of the last scenes where Virginia is in the locked garden where it is incredibly bright and colorful (replicating where Sir Simon's wife had died) and, at the same time, the camera gives a Henry's point of view on the other side of the gate. Some of the concepts are suited for older kids - tweens and teens - such as the idea that people lived using candles before electricity. Virginia's dad hosts a banquet celebrating his invention of light bulbs which may catch younger viewers by surprise. When he shows the banquet attendees that he will be bringing light bulbs to England it makes the viewer question how long we have had such technological advancements. U.S. kids are not familiar with why the higher classes in England are referred to as Sir or Duke. This film definitely invites the viewer to question and problem solve. It makes the viewer question how royal families in England live, specifically when Henry goes to see Virginia before the banquet and says he will protect her from English high society. When Sir Simon explains the story of his love's death, the viewer learns to not believe everything they hear. The two boys are goofy --the ghost ends up displaying kind qualities by saving Henry whom he initially wanted to harm. The parents are loving and kind, and Virginia and Henry meet by chance, become good friends and eventually fall in love.

The film's messages are to never be fearful, to not judge others by what you hear about them, and to learn to give opportunities to new things as one may end up loving it.

I give The Canterville 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. It releases in theaters October 20, 2023 and digitally October 5 on all major channels.

The storyline is about a teddy bear that can talk. Marianne goes to town for an almond and ends up playing a carnival game where she sees Teddy move so she attempts to win, and does! Teddy moves the wheel because he wants to go with someone who has more money than her. She goes home to get another coin to play again but before she comes back another man wins Teddy. She goes and tries to find the man but fails.

I love Teddy's character and I also enjoyed Marianne (Marte Klerck-Nilssen) and her brother's close knit relationship. You can tell they love each other. The storyline has unexpected events and is adventurous. Marianne definitely has a big imagination and I wish I had a big imagination like hers. My favorite part is when Teddy and the hedgehog are in the basement and then the hedgehog starts doing a song and dance. It is a great musical moment. She does multiple dances and waves her arms around senselessly while attempting to get Teddy to cuddle. I love how when she dances it sounds like she makes up her own language. I also enjoy when her grandpa comes to the room in a Santa Claus costume and pretends as though he is the real Santa Claus. He delivers presents and afterwards Marianne approaches him and asks if it was him. He says, "yes, but don't tell anyone." She must be extremely smart to have figured that out! The film was made in Norway and it is interesting to see all their different traditions and meals. At first, I was distracted because the words they speak don't match the movement of the actors' mouths, but then I realized that is because the actors are speaking in a different language. I got used to it pretty quickly.

The film's message is to appreciate who you are and what you have. Teddy wants to be someone he isn't and go places he can't and he isn't happy until he realizes he is in a great place already. He is meant to be cuddled and now he has a whole family to cuddle with.

I give Teddy's Christmas 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. This film releases in theaters December 1, 2023.

By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

I like the film Teddy's Christmas. The acting is absolutely superb; the plot is adorable and filled with Christmas spirit. I loved all the different settings and was particularly interested in the smooth character development of Teddy.

The story follows 8-year-old Mariann (Marte Klerck).While visiting a Christmas market in her Norwegian town; she spots a talking teddy bear at a carnival game booth. However, when someone else wins it, she takes off on a mission to find it but ends up causing a lot of damage instead.

This is a really good film that I really enjoyed. The acting of Marte Klerk as Mariann is amazing --he really portrays the character well, which greatly influences the entirety of the film. She has such a noticeable spark throughout the film. I also really enjoy the character, Mom (Mariann Hole) in the film. She really brings this character to life, particularly in the scene where Teddy learns what a hug is. That is so adorable because his first hug was with a hedgehog who thinks she is un-huggable. The ending is filled with so much kindness and Christmas spirit it inspired me in many ways. My favorite aspect of the whole film is Teddy (John F. Brungot.) John's voice acting is a perfect match for this role, which is a somewhat sarcastic yet loving character. At the beginning of the film all Teddy wants is a rich owner who can take him places. In fact he originally doesn't like Marianne simply because she is a child and doesn't have money, but at the end you can see how much he has matured since the beginning. It touched my heart to see how far he came in his emotional journey. Additionally the settings such as the snowy Christmas market are very realistic and beautiful, especially the Christmas Market game stand. It is super colorful and an adorable little tent.

The firm's message is to always be honest and know that sometimes you have to make sacrifices for the greater good. Parents should be aware that Marianne's behavior is rather suggestive at times.

I give Teddy's Christmas 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. You can watch it in theaters beginning December 1, 2023.

By Sofia T., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Teddy's Christmas, directed by Andrea Eckerbom, is a heartwarming animated gem celebrating the magic of Christmas. The enchanting story of eight-year-old Mariann and her connection with the sentient Teddy is a delightful blend of nostalgia and whimsy. Zachary Levi's captivating voice work and seamless animation make this Norwegian tale a festive treat for all ages.

In Teddy's Christmas, the enchanting story unfolds in a Norwegian town during the festive season. Eight-year-old Mariann (Marte Klerck-Nilssen) discovers a magical secret at a Christmas market - a teddy bear named Teddy comes to life! Determined to make him her own, Mariann faces unexpected challenges as Teddy dreams of a worldly adventure. Alongside his newfound friend, Bolla (Lene Kongsvik Johansen), the hedgehog, the film takes us on a heartwarming journey exploring the true meaning of friendship and the joy of the holiday season.

This heartwarming tale is a must-see for anyone who embraces the holiday spirit and shares the season's joy with loved ones. Bringing Teddy's Christmas to life is a talented cast led by Marte Klerck-Nilssen as the charming eight-year-old Mariann. The chemistry between Klerck-Nilssen and the animated character Teddy, voiced by the charismatic Zachary Levi, is a standout feature that adds a layer of enchantment to the film. The seamless animation compliments the festive and immersive sets of the Norwegian town's Christmas market. The costuming attention to detail and overall visual design create a cozy and magical atmosphere. One of my favorite aspects is Zachary Levi's voice work for Teddy, infusing the character with personality and charm. The whimsical music further enhances the enchanting experience, making it a memorable and heartwarming holiday film.

At its heart, Teddy's Christmas carries a poignant message about the true meaning of friendship, love, and the joy of giving during the holiday season. The film successfully emphasizes the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones and valuing the simple joys of life.

I give Teddy's Christmas 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. You can catch the magic of Teddy's Christmas releases in theaters starting on December 1, 2023.

The story follows a girl named Asha (Ariana DeBose) who longs to fulfill her wish. Then something strange happens and Asha's wishing star comes to life, Asha calls the wishing star, "Star"! King Magnifico (Chris Pine), a powerful sorcerer who looks like he is doing everything for the kingdom, but in reality, he is doing everything for himself. One of my favorite characters is Valentino (Alan Tudyk), the hilarious goat that cheers up everyone even when they're in a tough situation.

The animation is great although it is not as quite as good as many other animated films we see today. On the other hand, the special effects are incredible and match the story perfectly. My favorite scene is when Asha is talking to her friends about the wishing star coming to her and helping her with her wish. Asha puts Star and Valentino in the chicken pen and tells them to be quiet. When Asha shows Star to everyone, we are treated to chicken dance that Valentino is leading. What makes this scene so funny is the contrast between the serious topic and one that isn't serious at all! Another stunning scene takes place on top of King Magnifico's castle. Asha is in pain from the power King Magnifico has struck her and everyone in the kingdom, with. The citizens of Rosas are looking up at Asha. They too have been struck by King Magnifico's bad magic, but they still sing with their hearts content to fight for their kingdom. You need to watch and see what happens next, I believe that you will love it just as much as I did!

The film's film is to always keep dreaming about your wishes -- you will find a way to get there and someday they will come true. What matters most is that the wish is really your heart's desire. Another message is to keep fighting for your dream because, if it is really what you want, it will come true.

I give Wish 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It opens in theaters on November 22, 2023.

By Keila V., KIDS FIRST!, Film Critic, Age 12

Wish stands as the latest jewel in the Disney crown, a captivating addition to the beloved collection that has defined the magic of animated storytelling for generations. The film, reminiscent of prime Disney, artfully weaves a tale filled with enchanting moments, exceptional acting, and an irresistible vibrancy that pays homage to the studio's golden era.

At the heart of Wish lies the compelling story of Asha, portrayed with grace and charm by Ariana DeBose. A soon-to-be 18-year-old, Asha embarks on a journey discovering the transformative power of wishing upon a star. Her wish, far from ordinary, becomes a courageous plea to thwart the plans of the imposing King Magnifico, portrayed with regal charisma by Chris Pine. The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of whimsy and depth, capturing the hearts of audiences from start to finish.

The palpable enthusiasm surrounding the film is undeniable. Wish not only delivers a cinematic experience that is compelling and entertaining, but manages to empower its audience at the same time. The film's brevity sets a new benchmark for Disney, departing from sprawling narratives and standing as a testament to the creative prowess of the filmmakers. In terms of technical brilliance, Wish excels in its innovative approach. The combination of 3D characters and 2D backgrounds creates an animated masterpiece, showcasing the film's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. Chris Pine's portrayal of King Magnifico is outstanding, portraying the character as a misunderstood villain, shedding light on Pine's underrated acting skills. Ariana DeBose, with her remarkable voice and expressive acting, brings depth and authenticity to her character, adding to the film's overall allure. The pacing of the film is a noteworthy element, keeping the audience engaged throughout the film.

The film's message, "some dreams come true," resonates perfectly with the quintessential Disney spirit. It encapsulates the magic of dreams and the belief that, no matter the circumstances, some wishes do come true.

I give Wish 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on November 22, 2023.

By David E., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Set in the beautiful kingdom of Rosas, I found Wish to be an enchanting and fascinating movie with amazing singing and really funny characters!

Asha (Ariana DeBose) lives in Rosas where a sorcerer king named Magnifico (Chris Pine), and a queen named Amaya (Angelique Cabral) rule. Asha also has a cute sidekick, a goat named Valentino (Alan Tudyk). Magnifico has a special power which is the ability to grant wishes. Young Asha makes a wish so powerful that it's answered by a cosmic force, a ball of boundless energy called Star. With Star's help, Asha is able to save her kingdom from the evil king and prove that magic things can happen.

Rosas is a beautifully animated town where people always have fun. However, the setting sometimes looks rather flat, uncharacteristic of the lively Disney animation I am l so used to. Sometimes the secondary characters look like they are all wearing the same clothes and they don't have much impact to the story. Ariana DeBose's singing is so spectacular; you can hear the power and the emotion in her voice. Chris Pine is a great voice actor for Magnifico because you can hear the difference between when Magnifico is the good king vs when he plays the "Evil sorcerer." Alan Tudyk is really funny and is perfect for the role of Valentino! The little Star is super cute and lively, making me laugh out loud! Wish was especially made for the 100th anniversary of Disney Studios and meets KIDSFIRST! criteria. I loved the interesting story and the many great songs. Disney is also launching a new Wish Together campaign with their decade's long partnership with Make-a-Wish Foundation with the release of this movie.

The film reminds us to never give up following our passion because when we do, we lose the light inside ourselves and we forget what we are living for. When somebody pushes us down, that is the time that we have to do our best to stand up to them because we have the light and power within each of us. We also are reminded that we are always stronger when we stand together. When Asha is defeated by Magnifico, she starts singing a powerful song which moves everyone to sing with her and they defeat Magnifico together.

give Wish 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available in theaters now.

By Avani M., KIDSFIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Wish, the latest animated film from Disney, is somewhat mediocre. From an animation standpoint, this movie is visually stunning with adorable animals and striking settings. However, it is a bit lacking in its story.

Asha (Ariana DeBose) is a peppy, optimistic, and caring 17-year-old girl living in the magical kingdom of Rosas. She is interviewing for an apprenticeship with the powerful, magical, and beloved King Magnifico (Chris Pine), who grants people wishes, when she notices he isn't what he seems to be. When she relies on a star to grant the wish that King Magnifico wouldn't, the star comes down from the sky and helps her cause a revolution to save her kingdom from King Magnifico.

This movie celebrates 100 years of Disney and the idea of wishing upon a star. It has many references to the studio's previous movies--some subtle, some obvious-- and they are sometimes funny. A couple references I caught are to Peter Pan, Cinderella and Mary Poppins. And though it was nice to see an original 'princess-y' movie from Disney after some of the remakes from other studios, Wish relies a bit too much on Disney's older movies instead of creating something entirely new and unique. The animation is beautiful in this movie. It is distinctive compared to other recently-animated Disney movies and has a kind of hand-drawn feel while staying pretty true to Disney's signature style for 3D animation. The animals are so, so cute. They look like 3D versions of animal characters straight out of Bambi, and I really enjoyed it whenever they came on screen. I also love the star in this movie. I think it was the right choice to make it silent because it adds to the magic and mysteriousness of the star. Its design and face are simple and that's what makes it so endearing. In spite of my appreciation for the animation, the story and songs are unmemorable. The story is pretty simple and understandable for children, and I can see why kids might like it, though it likely may not be as entertaining for teens and adults or be as popular on social media platforms as some movie soundtrack songs were recently. The cast and characters are very diverse. Asha is the second Disney female lead character of African descent, with the first being Tiana. Asha's friend group, based on the Seven Dwarfs from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, is very diverse, with people from many different origins and ethnicities, including Dahlia, who has a walking disability and is voiced by Jennifer Kumiyama, who is in a wheelchair herself. Be sure to stay all the way to the end for a sweet post-credit scene.

The messages of Wish are that your dreams are special and make up a big part of you, and that you should work hard to make your dreams come true.

I give Wish 3 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Wish is in theaters as of November 22, 2023.

The story features Leonardo (Adam Sandler) and Squirtle (Bill Burr) who are quick witted, full of jokes and the best classroom pets ever. Leonardo, Leo for short, overhears a parent saying that lizards live up to 75; at age 74, Leo decides it is time to escape and live his life to the fullest. In comes strict "old school" substitute teacher Ms. Malkin (Cecily Strong) who wants to teach the 5th graders responsibility by taking turns to care for the classroom pets over the weekend. Each reluctant 5th grader who takes Leo home discovers his secret, along with wisdom about who they are and how they can better fit in the world. Every student returns Leo to the classroom and Squirtle is his biggest fan, boosting Leo's spirits and outlook on his caged life. When his secret is revealed, jealousy and distrust seeps in and Ms. Malkin, who feels the most threatened, takes Leo away.

Each 5th grader experiences positive change after their time with Leo and, in return, Leo experiences living like he never has before. The animation is colorful and realistic, from the background scenery to the small details like how a caterpillar is depicted. Each of the actors who play the 5th graders fits their character from their personality to their hair and body type. I especially liked Summer (Sunny Sandler) with her fast-talking, super sweet kindness, as well as the overly "great" and popular Jayda (Sadie Sandler). The little balls of energy that represent the kindergarteners are on point. And from the overprotected, super-safe, drone-watched home of Eli (Roey Smigel) to the over-the -top, mega-great mansion of Jayda's family, it is easy to get a sense of each character from their surroundings. The musical element of Leo propels the characters into songs that tell of their struggles, hopes and dreams while moving the story along in a beautiful way. I like the opening song that expresses how the last year of elementary school is about being on top and the melancholy song toward the end of the film each 5th grader sings about when they were younger.

While facing his mortality, Leo learns the important lesson that he has a lot of life experience to share. He is transformed from a grumpy old lizard with nothing to show for his 74 years to beloved friend and confidant who discovers he has many more years ahead of him. Another theme of Leo is in the significance of not underestimating yourself and the film delivers the message to live an authentic life by sharing your talents and being true.

I give Leo 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Leo releases on Netflix November 21, 2023.

Ammu's Treasures is a three-volume omnibus of 35 songs and 21 chants compiled by renowned musician Chandrika Tandon. The album features many maestros including Cyro Baptista, Martin Bejerano, Rakesh Chaurasia, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and more.

Ammu's Treasures is beautifully composed, with each piece clearly having hours of thought behind its instrumentals, vocals and mixing. Plus, the accompanying lyric videos by Marc Lumer and Bob Spang are vibrant and enjoyable. The album was conceptualized by Tandon as a gift to her grandchildren, and it's evident that she painstakingly pieced together the motley array of songs in the album; I'll admit that the mix of pop songs, nursery rhymes, chants and instrumental pieces took me by surprise at the beginning, but only those who actually listen to the songs will realize how they come together to form a beautiful lyrical panoply. My personal favorite pieces are "Chants - To the Light," "Listen to the Pouring Rain," and "Au Clair la Lune," as much for their nostalgic value as for their elegance.

Ammu's Treasures was created to spread intergenerational love through art (one of the purest kinds of love!). And you do truly feel it after listening to two or three numbers, a magical sensation that envelopes you with joy and warmth. It's truly wonderful.

I give Ammu's Treasures 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 3 to 5 plus adults. Ammu's Treasures released on all major audio vendors beginning September 7, 2023.

By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

The children's album Ammu's Treasures is very well sang by Chandrika Tandon. The vocals are strong and lyrical. It brings back memories of my early childhood and the songs I used to sing, and the happy, cartoonish music videos will appeal to young kids.

Ammu's Treasures is a collection of 35 songs and 21 chants that range from traditional folk tunes to familiar and popular songs and nursery rhymes for multi-generations, sung by Grammy nominee Chandrika Tandon. It includes some music videos featuring an animated family of colorful bears -- one of whom is dressed in traditional Indian clothing - along with other characters.

Ammu's Treasures is appropriate for a multigenerational audience, particularly younger kids. For example, babies and toddlers will enjoy the nursery rhymes like "Teddy Bears' Picnic," "Hush Little Baby" and "Bye Bye Blackbird." The colorfully animated music videos, such as "Miller of the Dee" will also attract younger viewers. Many of the songs will be familiar to both children and adults, such as "Edelweiss" and "Scarborough Fair." Songs like "Au Clair de la Lune," "Molly Malone," "Vive Le Compagnie," and "Que Sera Sera" might remind adults of their own childhoods. Ammu's Treasures features many maestros including Cyro Baptista, Martin Bejerano, Peter Calo, Purbayan Chatterjee, Rakesh Chaurasia, B�la Fleck, Eugene Friesen, Maeve Gilchrist, Jamey Haddad, Bobby Keyes, Kevin Kliesch, Howard Levy, Romero Lubambo, Marcus Rojas, Dave Schroeder, Michael Ward-Bergeman, Kenny Werner, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, Scott Cannizzaro, Teese Gohl, John Kiehl, Kevin Killen, Mirek Vana, and more. Marc Lumer and Bob Spang contributed their talents to the lyric videos. Chandrika Tandon also acknowledges her Indian heritage with songs such as "Surganani." In the song "There's a Hole in My Bucket" the name of the girl is changed from Liza to Kavi, which is an Indian girls' name. I like that.

Ammu's Treasures conveys an overall happy, cheerful message meant for the ears of younger audiences. There is no inappropriate language in any of the songs.

I give Ammu's Treasures 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 5, plus adults. Ammu's Treasures released on all major audio vendors beginning September 7, 2023.

The storyline follows the Vanderhouven family when a generations-long family curse turns Alex Vanderhouven (Reid Scott) to stone. It's up to his wife Sky Vanderhouven (Lyric Lewis) and their two kids, Russ (Andre Robinson) and Pandora (Gabrielle Nevaeh) to return artifacts stolen by their ancestors to their rightful homes to finally lift the curse for good. The Vanderhouvens need to solve this mystery soon before it's too late.

This very adventurous show is full of unsolved mysteries and has lots of educational benefits. For example, in one episode we learn about two ancient civilizations -- the Aztecs, and the Olmec. The animation is phenomenal and the voice-acting cast is amazing - Rhys Darby, Rhea Perlman, Phylicia Rashad and horror legend Robert Englund, among others - which makes it outstanding. The voice actors really portray their characters exceptionally well. The way the director shows the bond between the family members and how they support each other is rare for an animated show. This show is so inspiring and heartfelt. However, I will say that the storyline is very predictable; for instance, when the kids go looking for their father I already knew something bad had happened because of how he was being so secretive from the beginning of the show.

The show's message is that, with the help of a family member, friend, or a trusted adult, you can do anything.

I give Curses 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This show premieres on Apple TV+ October 27, 2023, just in time for Halloween. Be sure to check it out.

The film follows the next generation of Spy Kids, Nora Torrez (Gina Rodriguez) and Terrance Tango (Zachary Levi)'s children, tasked to save the world from a diabolical villain's doomsday device. The young cast, led by talented newcomers Connor Esterson and Everly Carganilla, brings fresh energy to the franchise. The action sequences are exhilarating, and the gadgets are as ingenious as ever, providing a visual spectacle that left me on the edge of my seat.

Spy Kids: Armageddon excels in production elements. The imaginative sets, cleverly designed spy gadgets, and visually stunning special effects create a world that feels familiar and full of surprises. Standout performances by Everly Carganilla as Patty Tango-Torrez and Connor Esterson as Tony Tango-Torrez add depth to the cast, and their chemistry with the lead characters is delightful. Rodriguez's signature style shines through in the film's direction, keeping the pace engaging and fully immersing the audience in the Spy Kids universe.

At its core, Spy Kids: Armageddon delivers a positive message about teamwork, family and believing in oneself. The young spies face challenges and make mistakes, but ultimately learn and grow from their experiences.

I give Spy Kids: Armageddon 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults who have fond memories of the original Spy Kids movies. You can catch this exciting family adventure right now on Netflix, making it a perfect choice for a cozy movie night at home with your little spies-in-training.

After a meteor strikes Adventure City, damaging their Pup Tower - the PAW Patrol finds themselves with superpowers. But the pups soon realize they're in danger because Humdinger and mad scientist Victoria Vance are after these superpowers to make themselves into ultimate supervillains. It's up to Ryder and his team of mighty puppies to keep what is theirs as they learn that truly no pup is too small.

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie is fantastically entertaining for younger viewers, with its fun storyline, bright colors and adorable characters. There are so many fun scenes that younger kids will enjoy. I really enjoyed the music choices in this film - it's a good mix of popular songs that different age groups will recognize and they are placed at nice points of the movie. The film takes place in Adventure City and the animators really excel in the attention to detail in creating the city as well as the other settings throughout the film. My favorite scene is when Sky tells Chase about her backstory; it is a really sentimental point of the film and is super sweet.

The theme of PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie is that if you believe in yourself you can do anything. Sky spends most of the movie contemplating her size because she's the smallest in the group, but in the end she learns that her size doesn't determine whether she can be a hero, she just has to believe in herself. Ryder says throughout the movie, "no pup too small." The pups learn the importance of this throughout the movie when they realize they all must work together to keep their powers.

I give PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8. It releases in theaters September 29, 2023.

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken, tells the captivating story of Ruby (Lana Condor), a 16-year-old girl longing for acceptance in high school. Her life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers her lineage as a descendant of warrior Kraken queens and her destiny to protect the oceans from power-hungry mermaids. As Ruby grapples with her newfound identity, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, forming an unlikely friendship with Chelsea (Annie Murphy), a mermaid, and reconnecting with her estranged grandmother.

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken brings its characters to life with a talented cast that shines throughout the film. Lana Condor delivers a remarkable performance as Ruby, capturing the essence of a shy teenager thrust into an enchanting underwater world. Annie Murphy adds depth to her character, Chelsea, the captivating mermaid, while Jane Fonda's commanding portrayal of Ruby's grandmother adds gravitas to the story. The film's imaginative world-building and stunning animation immerse the audience in a visually captivating underwater realm. For fans looking to dive deeper the Blu-ray and DVD release offers a treasure trove of bonus materials, including deleted scenes with intros by co-director Faryn Pearl, and a chance to meet the talented humans behind the scenes. One standout aspect is the pivotal scene where Ruby discovers her true heritage and destiny, a breathtaking moment that symbolizes her journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

The film's underlying message is of self-discovery and embracing one's uniqueness is strong.

I give Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken 4 out of 5 stars and recommended for ages, 5 to 18, plus adults. Ruby Gillman is available now on Blu-ray and DVD.

By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken is a hilarious film with a captivating story -- I couldn't even get up for more popcorn! It is illustrated by bright and interesting characters that you will root for and evil ones you'll be afraid of. I love the music chosen for the film, but my favorite part is definitely the animation.

The storyline follows 16-year-old Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor), a kraken girl who just wants to be a normal teenager, but the universe has other plans for her. When she accidentally sends Connor (Jaboukie Young-White), the boy she had planned to ask to prom, overboard and dives in after him, she discovers that she is not only a giant kraken, but underwater royalty, granddaughter of the kraken queen (Jane Fonda). With the help of her new kraken superpowers and her Uncle Brill (Sam Richardson), she uncovers her family history and the ancient rivalry between the krakens and the evil mermaids, all while trying to maintain her friendships and avoiding the monster-hunting sailor, Gordon Lighthouse (Will Forte).

You need to know that the kraken are sworn to protect the oceans of the world against the power-hungry mermaids. The characters in Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken immediately drew me in. Viewers will cheer Ruby on from the beginning because of her determination and her vivid personality. Her little brother, Sam, has a contagious happy energy that made me feel more awake when I watched him destroy his opponents at dodgeball. Uncle Brill is so effortlessly hilarious, even when he doesn't mean to be -- such as when he accidentally reveals Ruby's lineage to her. His goofy antics kept me entertained throughout the film. It's hard not to adore Connor, with his big eyes and innocent personality. The wicked mermaid (Annie Murphy), on the other hand, is malicious and terrifying. The soundtrack of Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken features upbeat songs that many teenagers will find relatable, such as I Just Wanna Shine by Fitz and the Tantrums. What I find most stunning about the film is the animation. I love the way the mermaid's hair is like a glowing white mist -- and how all the krakens' markings glow in the dark. The underwater Kraken Kingdom is beautifully constructed, and I love the way the main building is designed with a skylight. The lights and darks and the animation's color scheme make a huge impact on the film as a whole. Even the fast-moving scenes, such as the fight for the trident, are seamlessly animated, and it almost feels like a three-dimensional experience.

Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken reminded me that anyone can do anything, regardless of their age or species! Our differences don't make us weird; they make us special. We can't all have laser eyes, but everyone has a superpower unique to them, just waiting to be unlocked.

I give Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The movie releases in theaters June 30, 2023.

By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

The film Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken is great! I like that they center the film on a 15-year-old and her struggles as a teenager. The film also has some really talented voice actors and hilarious characters that made it really fun to watch and a great time at the movies.

The film is set in a seaside town where Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor) is a teenage kraken just trying to fit in when, after an accident, she turns into a giant kraken! She is embarrassed about her newfound power and desperately wants to hide it. The conflict arises when Ruby tries to learn about her powers, but her mother (Toni Collette) tries to stop her. Ruby decides to learn anyway and finds out that she is much more than just a giant kraken.

Thematically, this film explores coming-of-age and how to treat each other nicely. There are a ton of great things about the movie. To begin, the animation is very creative and colorful. While mostly CGI, it includes traditional 2D animation mixed in. The design of the town is well crafted, and the krakens are very interesting because they have tentacle-like arms and legs that stretch and bend in hilarious ways. The voice actors are great in this film, as well. Annie Murphy's portrayal of Chelsea really covers a wide range of personalities, from sweet to menacing. One of the funniest characters is Uncle Brill, who is just trying to help but always seems to end up getting bonked. My favorite scenes are all the ones under water, because of the wide variety of creatures we see. The ending has a bit of a plot twist.

The film's message is very uplifting -- to answer the call and discover your true self. It's a very positive social message, especially for teenagers. Be aware that there is one mildly disturbing scene where a character almost drowns.

I give Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken is available now in theaters.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This film reminds me how creativity and imagination are blessings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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