Family Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The story follows Nora (Molly Peyton), a teenage girl who has always dreamed of becoming a professional hockey player and getting drafted. She is passionate about the sport and refuses to give up on her goal, even when she faces challenges along the way. Her journey shows how much dedication and hard work it takes to pursue something you truly love. The film also features hockey legends Luc Robitaille, Marty McSorely and Joseph Nieuwenyk, who add an authentic feeling to the hockey world and makes the story even more exciting.

This is a great short film for anyone who has ever had a dream they were determined to achieve. One of my favorite things about the film is its message! The film's takeaway is that you should never give up on a dream just because it seems impossible. I really like how the film displays that having talent is important, but determination, confidence and believing in yourself can be just as powerful. The hockey scenes are especially fun to watch because they give the film energy and made me feel like I was right there on the ice with Nora. I also like that the story focuses on a girl trying to make it into a sport that's very competitive. Nora's dream doesn't come easily, which makes her journey more meaningful. Instead of giving up when things get difficult, she keeps pushing forward. The film's title stands out to me because it creates a sense of urgency, as if she has to take her chance before the opportunity disappears - or the ice melts.

The film's message is about following your dreams, working hard, believing in yourself and never giving up. Parents should know that there are some emotional and competitive moments like bullying, but nothing too concerning.

Before the Ice Melts gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommended it for ages 8 to 12, plus hockey fans and families. It is available on VOD and streaming on September 8, 2026.

By Adrianna R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Wow! I really love Before the Ice Melts! It has a great story, awesome acting, and a really good message. I like how real the characters feel, and how it kept me engaged the whole time.

Before the Ice Melts is about Nora (Molly Peyton White), a young woman who loves playing hockey and hopes to be drafted. On one of the biggest days of her life, she also struggles with the pressures of her mother (Sonia Satra), who keeps comparing her to her older sister, Carley (Nikki Leigh). With help from her best friend, Evan (Tommy Self), Nora learns to believe in herself and keep chasing her dream.

If you like sports movies with heart, you'll really enjoy Before the Ice Melts. The cast is really terrific. Molly Peyton White is perfect as Nora. Tommy Self made me laugh at the perfect times, and I love how Nikki Leigh shows how much Carley cares about her sister. The hockey games and the draft scenes are exciting and held my attention. I like that the movie shows you have to work hard to reach your goals because success doesn't happen overnight. I also really like how it made me feel like I was right there at the rink with Nora. The background music is perfect, especially during the big hockey moments, which makes those scenes even more exciting. And the cinematography makes the games feel fast and intense. My favorite part of the movie is how real everything feels to the point that I forgot I was watching a movie.

The film's message is to never give up and always believe in yourself, even when things seem impossible. It promotes supportive friendships, dedication, and shows the importance of family and friendship. Be forewarned that there are some emotional family arguments and intense hockey games, but there is no bad language or anything inappropriate for older kids and teens.

I give Before the Ice Melts 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD and Streaming on Before the Ice Melts on September 8, 2026.

By Bailey G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Before the Ice Melts is an inspiring, slow-paced film for all hockey lovers. The costumes, set design, and camera work are amazing! There are so many inspiring quotes that support the message of never giving up.

Before the Ice Melts follows the talented hockey player Nora (Molly Peyton White) as she anxiously awaits the results of the hockey draft. The world is trying to tell her no, but she won't stop pursuing her dreams. With support from her big sister and agent Molly, she holds onto hope as the draft gets closer. You'll have to watch the film to see if she accomplishes her dreams of becoming a professional hockey player.

Before the Ice Melts has a beautiful message, stunning cinematography, and excellent attention to detail that makes the film stand out not only visually, but in your heart. Some things definitely stood out to me as I watched the film, one of them being the unique shots and camera work by Jeff Hamm. It feels like I'm watching a major blockbuster film. Each shot has perfect lighting and attention to detail that captures what's happening in the scene. The set design and costumes also stand out - both work hand in hand to make the film feel real. Everything from Nora's bedroom, to the massive hockey rink is set up realistically. One critique I have is that the film sometimes feels slow, and drags on longer than they need to. For example, there are often long periods of time just watching hockey or a long conversation. In the end, this made me excited to see the results of the draft. I think people who enjoy playing and watching hockey will be very inspired by this film.

The film's message is that you should never give up and always pursue your dreams. Nora doesn't back down from hockey even when her mom believes she should go into real estate for guaranteed money. Her actions show us that hard work pays off.

I give Before the Ice Melts 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It is available on VOD and streaming on September 8, 2026.

By Brooklyn S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 12

Before The Ice Melts is an extremely entertaining film that combines comedy with a message of hope and perseverance. I especially love the actors' performances and the overarching plot that revolves around anticipation.

The storyline follows a 25-year-old woman named Nora (Molly Peyton) as she anxiously spends the day waiting to see if she will get drafted. The stakes are high, as this is her final year to qualify for junior leagues, and her life's work depends on this decision. Meanwhile, she has to deal with consistent criticism from her mother (Sonia Satra) and Ted (Charles Hubbell) who both want her to go into real estate because they don't think that hockey is a sustainable career option.

Something that I find interesting about this movie is the pacing. The circumstances of the plot don't progress very much-instead, the primary engine of the film is Nora's inner dialogue. She wrestles with anxiety throughout the whole film about whether or not she will be drafted. She's desperate to prove her doubters wrong, but in the process doubts herself. What is really unique is the choice to make both the viewer and Nora feel stuck in a state of powerlessness. There's nothing that she can do to impact the decision of the draft; it's all about hope and patience. My favorite part is Molly Peyton's portrayal of Nora. She really captures Nora's emotional state throughout the movie, so the audience can relate to why this is so important to Nora, which is the element that drives the entire film.

The film's message revolves around the theme of perseverance - never giving up no matter how many times you have been knocked down or how many times people don't support you. It is critical and the film exemplifies that through Nora's character arc.

I give Before The Ice Melts 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can catch the film on VOD and streaming services beginning Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

There is no dialog or acting in this film; instead it's filled with back-to-back Christmas songs. The soundtrack includes traditional Christmas tunes that are adjusted to be about trains, as well as completely new songs about the holidays on the railways. This film centers entirely around trains of all sizes, big and small. It showcases the cutest Christmas scenes that trigger a nostalgic feeling and walks down memory lane.

The film has some unique animation featuring a dancing Santa and a dancing snowman. The transitions between scenes caught my eye the most. There is an abundance of different colors, lights, trains, scenes, and scenery, which held my attention from start to finish. It truly reminds me of a Christmas screen saver that I might play on a TV while decorating for the holidays. It definitely got me into the Christmas spirit, and it brought back early childhood memories. My favorite part is trying to spot the widely recognized or famous characters throughout the entire film. It is fun to excitedly point out some of the little toy replicas of these characters from many different films and TV shows as they randomly appear.

The film's message is to express the joy of Christmas, both past and present. Of course, the focus on the many different types of trains, adds another layer to it. It pulls off a positive vibe of holiday merriment that made me want to smile and laugh. Although this production is targeted towards younger kids, it is entertaining for the whole family.

I give Lots & Lots Of Christmas Choo Choo Trains 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12, plus adults. It is available on VOD, AVOD, streaming, and online retailers now.

The story follows Finn, a kind hearted leprechaun who feels different from the other leprechauns around him. Instead of wanting to focus on mischief or greed, Finn wants to use his abilities for good and hopes to become an elf at Santa's workshop. As he makes his way to the North Pole, he meets talking animals, gnomes, and skeptical elves who don't immediately understand him. I like how Finn's journey shows that sometimes other people may not understand your dreams, but that shouldn't stop you from being yourself.

The Christmas setting makes the story feel extra magical. The idea of a leprechaun travelling all the way to the North Pole to become an elf is creative and fun, especially because it brings together two different kinds of holidays together. The colorful illustrations also help bring Finn's adventure to life and make the book appealing for younger readers. Finn's journey is filled with challenges and important lessons about kindness as well as courage. One of my favorite things is the message, which reminds readers that being different can actually be a gift. I really like how the story connects this idea to the Christmas spirit, showing that kindness, generosity and compassion are more important than fitting in. Finn's determination to find where he belongs makes his adventure especially meaningful and gives young readers an encouraging lesson about believing in themselves. Anyone who enjoys magical adventures will most likely enjoy this book.

The story promotes a positive message about kindness, courage, compassion and embracing what makes you unique. Parents should know that the story includes some moments where Finn faces doubt from others, but these moments help reinforce the book's positive message and are appropriate for younger readers.

The Christmas Leprechaun gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommended it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now from online retailers.

By Adrianna R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

The most appealing parts of The Christmas Leprechaun are certainly the illustrations and the concept of the story. It wonderfully combines Irish folklore with Christmas and that's not something you see all the time. It includes a new, fresh take on a Christmas story and has some excellent positive messages about kindness, courage, and being yourself. A favorite part is when Finn meets Athena and she helps him realize that being different can actually be a strength. This short story is suitable for kids due to the magical elements, fun illustrations and the heartwarming message behind the story.

The storyline follows Finn, a leprechaun who is different from his family: he has a dream of being on Santa's team on the North Pole. On his journey to fulfill his dreams, he encounters numerous obstacles along the way, learning that being different is not always bad.

The story has a clear beginning, middle, and ending, and the plot makes sense. However, the middle is a little hard to follow because there are several different events and characters introduced quickly that don't have much of a role in the overall story. The ending feels quite rushed when compared to the beginning, especially when Finn suddenly becomes accepted by the elves and joins Santa. The writing style is simple and descriptive, which works well for younger readers, although some of the character development lacks strength.

This is a fantasy story that uses ideas about leprechauns, elves, Irish traditions, and Christmas, which are mostly used to establish the fantasy setting of the story. The book does not try to teach the reader historical facts about these traditions. For a children's fantasy book, the information is appropriate and fits the story. I like how Finn models kindness, generosity, courage, and acceptance. He helps others even when he has very little himself and he eventually learns to accept what makes him different. Also, there is an owl who models compassion and wisdom as she encourages Finn when he feels as though he does not belong. However, there are some negative behaviors lacking consequences in the beginning of the story such as Finn's brother Blarney teasing him for being different and not wanting to act like the other leprechauns. Finn faces several problems throughout his journey and has to decide whether he should continue when things become difficult. He questions whether he belongs at the North Pole, but the owl encourages him to trust himself. These problems are simple enough for young children to understand and it shows them that challenges can be solved by persevering and asking for help when needed. The vocabulary and concepts are mostly appropriate for a young audience. The illustrations are one of the strongest aspects of the book. They strengthen the magic of the story, bringing a sense of vibrancy and color, especially during the scenes at the North Pole. The artwork is very appealing and matches the holiday and fantasy themes of the story. The illustrations also help keep the book visually interesting even when the plot slows down. The book has strong social and entertainment value. It teaches children about kindness, generosity, courage, and accepting people who are different from them. The story is also entertaining because it combines leprechauns, elves, Christmas, and magic into one story, providing a unique and fun story line for young readers.

The book's message is that your differences are not something to be ashamed of. The story also shows that stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to new friendships and experiences.

I give The Christmas Leprechaun 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now from online booksellers.

Meet Wile E. Coyote, a rather unique individual whose only goal in life is to catch the infamous Roadrunner. Using equipment and weapons provided by the megacorporation ACME, he dedicates his days to finding any way possible to catch this bird; but the thing is, anytime he uses ACME products, he gets trampled, blown-up, smashed, crashed, or otherwise obliterated in countless ways. After one too many times that an ACME item backfires (quite literally) in his face, he decides to sue the company itself for defective products with help from down-on-his-luck human lawyer Kevin Avery (Will Forte) and his determined and a bit stubborn niece, Paige Avery (Lana Condor). What starts out as a simple lawsuit turns intense when the court is in session; old enemies are reunited, and a haunting ACME secret is discovered. Now, it's up to the Coyote, Kevin, and Paige to find what's hiding behind closed doors, assemble their case, and share the truth.

I love this film's unique blend of live-action and animation. Though this movie is set in the real world, everywhere you look there are characters, items, or places that could only be found in the land of Looney Tunes. I had the opportunity to ask director Dave Green what it was like mixing cartoons and real-life during production. He informed me that the actors were able to actually interact with Wile E. Coyote during filming, thanks to the use of a life size Coyote puppet that moved and acted exactly as he does in the film; it was almost like having Wile E. Coyote as a co-star. Will Forte and Lana Condor's interaction with their animated cast members make their presence feel real even though they aren't fully there during filming. Coupling that with advanced film technology that allows for increased cartoon and human interaction, I found this line-up of characters to be truly ground-breaking. The storyline itself is a multilayered twisting and turning mystery, with only a few moments being hard to follow. Showing how a simple incident can expand to literally decide the future of the Coyote and ACME gives intensity to the adventure, definitely more than what I expected. But no matter how serious the quest, whenever there are cartoons, there is sure to be humor. Wherever our pay Coyote finds himself, he's always ready to laugh and light up a room, sometimes by unintentionally setting things or himself on fire. All these elements and more make Coyote vs. ACME a true knee-slapping adventure, one that I and my family enjoyed.

This film's message is to never give up on your goals, no matter how distant or far-fetched they may seem. Taking on a megacorporation like ACME has its challenges, but trying to expose the corruption hidden deep beneath the surface is even more daunting. And, although it seems impossible, our crazy Coyote and his determination shows Kevin, Paige, and everyone how to try, try again, and eventually succeed.

I give Coyote vs. ACME 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Check it out when it pops into theaters on August 28, 2026!

By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST Film Critic, age 17

Get ready to laugh, because this film is absolutely Looney TUNES! Coyote vs. ACME is a hilarious celebration of the ultimate underdog, Wile E. Coyote, packed with gags, slapstick comedy and classic cartoon fun that fans know and love. I especially love seeing so many classic Looney Tunes characters make appearances throughout the movie. The combination of live action and animation is so much fun and reminds me of Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mary Poppins. As a fan of cartoon adventure films like Space Jam, I loved this and recommend it to other cartoon fans.

After decades of being blown to bits by bombs, demolished by dynamite, mangled by magnets, battered by boulders, trampled by trains and basically tortured by every ACME invention imaginable, Wile E. Coyote (Eric Bauza) finally decides enough is enough. He fights back and teams up with billboard accident lawyer Kevin Avery (Will Forte) to take on slick corporate attorney Buddy Crane (John Cena) and ACME, Inc., the profit-obsessed company behind all of the chaotic catastrophes. What starts as one desperate attempt to get justice turns into a hilarious adventure that puts Wile E. against the company that has been making his life miserable for decades.

This film has something for everyone, especially if you are a Looney Tunes fan. I love how the animation and live action are blended in this film. The animated Looney Tunes characters fit naturally into the live-action world, creating a fun visual style that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Will Forte brings plenty of heart and humor as Kevin Avery, while John Cena is perfectly entertaining as the slick Buddy Crane. Of course, Eric Bauza, as Wile E. Coyote steals the show with his expressive reactions, determination and never-ending bad luck. The sets and locations create a bigger world for the story, while the mix of real locations, live-action characters and animation makes the movie feel like a giant Looney Tunes adventure come to life. The movie celebrates the underdog, standing up for yourself and believing that you can make a difference even when the odds are completely against you. It is a fun reminder that sometimes you have to keep chasing your goal, no matter how many times you get knocked off the cliff.

The film's message is about fighting for what is right and refusing to give up, even when things get difficult. Wile E. Coyote may constantly find himself on the wrong end of an ACME invention, but he never stops trying.

I give Coyote vs. ACME 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adult. It releases in theaters August 28, 2026. Look for it!

The storyline follows Maria Bertrand as she tells the story of finding an injured baby sparrow, Happy, during Covid. She documents the bond she created with it during a time when she had no one else, and how she learned to trust it and for it to trust her. Along the way she shares the stories of others with similar experiences, and how their animals, while unconventional, are their best friends.

The interview segments throughout the film are so engaging and help refine the stories being told. For example, whenever Maria is talking about her and Happy, her narration enhances whatever emotion is being conveyed. The other stories she chose to share are also breathtaking - each inspiring in its own way. Everyone shares such beautiful and uplifting experiences. My personal favorite is Zach Skow and his dogs - while dogs may seem like a conventional pet, because of their struggles, they had to overcome and adapt to a new way of living. The visuals in this film are also unbelievable. For example, when Maria talks about how she first found Happy, the visual style switches to rotoscoping which animates the scene in an incredible way. In another scene, when they are talking about animal images drawn on walls, the animals are sketched out slowly giving the illusion that they're being drawn live. I particularly enjoyed the pacing. Each individual interview is its own segment, so nothing ever lingers too long. Each scene connects well with the next so the story has good continuity.

The film's message is that, no matter the animal, we, as humans, have the ability to create a deep connection with every single one. Be forewarned that death is talked about and injured animals are shown.

I give Finding Happy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD and streaming on September 1, 2026.

Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I love the documentary film Finding Happy because of its message about hope, mental health, and the healing power of nature. The film moved me deeply and made me cry of happiness at the end!

The storyline follows Maria Bertrand, a woman from Montreal, Canada, who moves to Los Angeles and adopts a dog that she names Moon. One day, while she is running, she finds an injured baby sparrow that is only one day old. She brings it home and takes care of him, and names him Happy, for the happiness he brings into her life. Shortly after, Moon passes away and Maria creates an even stronger bond with Happy. This life-changing experience makes her look for other people around the world that, just like her, have one-of-a-kind connections with their pets. This journey is spiritual, uplifting, and very moving.

My favorite aspect of Finding Happy is how the story is presented in an original and interesting way. For instance, the movie presents different people and they share their own stories of how they came across their animals. Maria Bertrand is the director, writer, and also the main focus of the documentary. She shares her story in a deeply personal way. Another person that resonated with me is Sangduen "Lek" Chailert. She is the founder of the Elephant Nature Park sanctuary in Thailand and is known for rescuing elephants and giving them a second chance with love and freedom. Happy the sparrow is often hilarious and makes me want to laugh all the time because of how funny he is and how silly he plays with Maria.

The film's message is about how love and kindness can be transformational, for both humans and animals. It shows how caring for other living beings has the power of healing. Animals are important for people and people are crucial for animals. It is a two-way relationship that benefits people and their pets. It serves as a general reminder that healing often begins when we shift our focus away from our own suffering to care for someone else, and this in turn, can give purpose to our lives.

I give Finding Happy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 through 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD, AVOD and streaming September 1, 2026.

By Miral, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Finding Happy is a documentary that shares inspiring stories of people who have rescued and cared for animals. I really enjoy how the film brings these stories to life through emotional moments, multiple points of views and a powerful message about the connection between people and animals.

The storyline mainly follows Happy, a sparrow who was injured and found on the roadside. His story is told along with stories of other rescued animals, including Honk, a goose who was abandoned in a pond, and Jenny, a cow who was considered not "useful," and a woman who has rescued more than 100 elephants. Each story is different, but they all show the importance of giving animals a safe place to live and caring for them. It shows how animals can bring happiness, comfort and support to people while also reminding people why animals deserve to be protected.

The film shows us that rescuing an animal doesn't only change the animal's life; it makes a difference in the life of the rescuer as well. One of the strongest parts of Finding Happy is the different points of view it explores. Instead of only focusing on the animals, the documentary really examines the people who have rescued and cared for them. Each person portrays themselves and we hear their passion and emotion as they talk about their pets. The stories show how much animals can mean to people, especially during difficult times. Happy's story is especially emotional because the relationship between him and his rescuer, Maria, shows how helping an animal can help bring happiness and purpose to someone's life.

This film explores themes of kindness, compassion, connection and protection of animals. Its biggest message is that animals do a lot for people, and people can give back by helping animals who are hurt, abandoned or in danger. We are reminded that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

I give Finding Happy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases to VOD and streaming on September 1, 2026.

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

The film Finding Happy is the cutest and most wholehearted documentary I have ever seen! This emotional story centers on adorable animals with their human best friends. It shows how much light and positivity animals can bring into our everyday lives through forming close bonds, while also demonstrating that animals can help with healing from painful emotions.

Maria Bertrand is an animal and nature lover who experiences many difficult challenges. As she is out jogging, she finds an injured baby bird, including a broken beak, which she finds will not allow him to return to the wild. Maria opts to keep the baby bird, names him Happy, and they quickly create a unique bond that helps her to find herself, look inside herself, and find joy. Maria decides to travel the world visiting other people who have animals as their best friends, listening to their stories about how their animal companions helped them get out of a dark place in their lives.

Maria Bertrand is the writer, director, and the star of this program. She is great at exploring everyone's background stories, including those of their animal best friends, while displaying a common thread throughout all of the narratives. I enjoyed how she doesn't just focus on dogs and cats as people's pets, but she explores all animals. She meets people whose "best friends" are a cow, a goose, and a chicken. Maria even travels to Thailand to meet a lady who is friends with many elephants. This documentary made me smile, laugh, and understand various bonds that people have with their animal friends. None of their bonds form in the same way, which enhances the uniqueness between the pairs and the uniqueness of this film. My favorite part is where fun songs are added to the videos of Happy and other animals. These moments highlight how charming and entertaining these animal partners are.

The film's message is expressed by Maria at the beginning - all animals, no matter how big or tiny, are unique, equal, and have a story to tell. They all have the ability to connect with us, communicate with us, heal us, and love us. If we can pause and start listening, they can light a pathway to a kinder, better, and happier world. Be forewarned that the film does mention suicide and curses once, but it is censored out.

I give Finding Happy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available on VOD, AVOD, and streaming on September 1, 2026.

This documentary follows Ara, Olive, Nikki, and Shannon Elizabeth during an entire "cookie season" as they set goals, sell cookies, and learn more about themselves. These girls differ in age, cultural backgrounds, and locations, but they all share one common goal: fulfilling their dreams through selling Girl Scout cookies. Olive, a Cadette from Charlotte, North Carolina, hopes to remain the top seller in her council. Nikki, a Brownie from Chino, California, dreams of following in her older sisters' footsteps, earning a cookie trophy, and traveling to Europe with her troop. Shannon Elizabeth, a Brownie from El Paso, Texas, wants to sell enough cookies to attend Girl Scout camp for the first time. And Ara, a Daisy from San Diego, California, aims to sell 55 boxes of cookies during her first cookie season.

I like everything about this film, but my favorite thing is the performances of the four girls, especially Ara. She stands out and she stole my heart with her innocence and authenticity. Her reactions feel so genuine that I sometimes forgot she was performing at all. While selling cookies in her neighborhood, she meets someone with diabetes, just like her, who tells her that he can't eat them. After cookie season ends, she sets out on a mission to create a sugar-free cookie, and she succeeds. Her sense of humor, her determination to pull her wagon, and her creative ways of attracting customers are both admirable and adorable. I also enjoyed the film's cinematography, especially the outdoor shots that show different settings and highlight the diversity of cities across the United States. This documentary moved me deeply. As a Girl Scout myself, I relate to these girls and the struggles and joys they share. It presents a realistic and human side of Girl Scouts today and shows that Girl Scouting is more than selling cookies, it's about discovering who you are and your place in the world.

The film's message is about perseverance, because all the girls face challenges and big obstacles, yet they push through and reach their goals.

I give Cookie Queens 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on August 7, 2026.

The storyline follows Connect 3's return to Camp Rock after losing their opening act for their upcoming reunion tour. They begin searching the camp for the next big talent to join them on tour, bringing together a group of talented young campers. As the campers compete, friendships are tested, new relationships form, and everyone learns that getting the spotlight isn't always what matters most.

The cast absolutely shines! Liamani Segura lights up the screen as Sage with her incredible smile, vocals, and dancing. She was meant for this role. Brooklyn Pitts is unforgettable as Callie, the choreo queen; her acting, dancing, and personality make it impossible to look away. Hudson Stone is incredible in his first big movie role as Desi. He sings, dances, plays instruments, and you can tell how much he loves being part of the film. Malachi Barton brings a more mature and raw side to Fletch, the bad boy, and definitely stands out. Lumi Pollack shines as Rosie and, impressively, learned to play the cello for the role. Her character's journey of coming out of her shell and embracing being different is beautiful. Casey Trotter had me laughing as Cliff, while Ava Jean brings the perfect amount of sass as Madison, along with amazing singing and dancing. Siblings Ella Lucas and Orlando Lucas are perfect additions as Daniel and Danielle, with hilarious interactions and incredible dancing. Sherry Cola is a total spitfire as Lark, evoking so many laughs with her perfect comedic timing. And seeing the Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, and Maria Canals-Barrera return ties it all together. The chemistry between this cast is something you can truly feel through the screen. The Camp Rock set deserves a shout-out. It feels like a real summer camp with the lake, canoes, cabins, outdoor spaces, and all the little details that bring Camp Rock to life. And the MUSIC is amazing! The performances, vocals, and choreography made me want to sing and dance right along with them.

The film's message is about being yourself, believing in your talent, and embracing what makes you unique. It shows that friendship, confidence, teamwork, and following your dreams can be more important than winning. Whether you grew up with the original movies or are discovering Camp Rock for the first time, this movie is filled with heart, humor, incredible talent, friendship, and music.

I give Camp Rock 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Pack your bags and get ready to head back to Camp Rock! It premieres on the Disney Channel August 13 and Disney+ August 14, 2026.

The storyline follows Tim (Andrew Garfield) and Polly (Claire Foy) Thompson plus their three kids, Joe (Phoenix Laroche), Beth (Delilah Bennett-Cardy) and Fran (Billie Gadsdon) as they move to the country after Polly quits her job. The children hate the idea because they don't want to leave their friends behind to move to a house without Internet service. As they head to the barn, Fran unknowingly helps Silky (Nicola Coughlan), a magic fairy. Silky invites Fran to tea at the Magic Faraway Tree where she meets other residents and begins a journey full of magical and wonderful worlds.

This film invites you along for the fun. The Magic Faraway Tree is the perfect balance of light-hearted fun and earnest emotion. I enjoy everything the film has to offer but, more than anything, I love the story - it's magical but still relatable. It is almost like something that could happen on a random Tuesday. It also keeps a perfect balance between events happening in the real world and at the faraway tree. I didn't lose out on the stories happening in either world. Another puzzle piece in this film is the characters. Each one is unique. Even if they share opinions or struggles, each one still feels like their own person. No character is there just to support another. We see a group of friends with special relationships, memories and backstories. It's a perfect balance.

The visuals in the film are beautiful. Everything from the Magic Faraway Tree to the family's old apartment is vibrant and colorful -- a fairy tale in real life! The magic extends to the way the characters dress. From magical suits and gowns down to regular clothing, the costumes reflect each person's personality and complement the others wonderfully. The set and costume designers are to be commended. Their work makes the film feel timeless, so viewers from now to a hundred years from now can imagine themselves there.

The film's message is that you only get one childhood, so go out and explore the world. Note that there are some risky actions like running away, and strong verbal arguments that children may imitate.

I give The Magic Faraway Tree 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It releases in theaters on August 21, 2026.

By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Who doesn't love a good fantasy film? The Magic Faraway Tree is a star-studded, family oriented movie that has the perfect balance of whimsy, adventure, and intricate character arcs.

The Magic Faraway Tree follows the Thompson's, a once tight-knit family that has been severed by technology. In an attempt to salvage the family dynamic, Tim (Andrew Garfield) moves with his wife Polly (Claire Foy), and their three children to the countryside. In a miraculous turn of events, the children discover a magical tree that transports them to various enchanted lands, where they learn valuable lessons about loyalty and sacrifice.

Although the film uses the magic of CGI to bring the fantastical lands to life, The Magic Faraway Tree was shot across various beautiful United Kingdom landscapes. The set design is visually aesthetic and vibrant, easily capturing the attention of young children. Speaking of children, each of the Thompson siblings, Francesca (Billie Gadsdon), Bethany (Delilah Bennett-Cardy), and Joseph (Phoenix Laroche) bring their own distinct personalities to the table. After not talking for years, Fran finally steps out of her shell when she finds a friend in Silky (Nicola Coughlan). Beth, who is a moody tween at the beginning of the film, realizes that she is not too old to believe in magic. Joe, who is obsessed with virtual reality, eventually understands what he'd miss out on if he spent the rest of his life wearing goggles. Each character in The Magic Faraway Tree has a moment of growth that contributes to its theme. Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy portray an exemplary couple who want the best for each other and their family. Both display nuance, as Tim is a child at heart but is willing to do anything to achieve his goals, and Polly is an intelligent, creative, and levelheaded woman that still has spontaneity within her. They demonstrate how, when you dream big and commit, you can have it all. The score by Isabella Summers, a founding member of the iconic band Florence and The Machine is terrific; each track encapsulates the tone of the film and draws the audience into each scene.

The film's message is to never take those who love you for granted. In today's world, it is so easy to get distracted by superficial things like technology and social media. However, this film encourages viewers to take a step back and remember what is truly important.

I give The Magic Faraway Tree 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theaters on August 21, 2026. Make sure you check it out!

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 18

If you are interested in a family oriented, magical, and adventurous film, then The Magic Faraway Tree is exactly the film for you. This movie contains relatable themes, real-world issues, and a fun story to watch which makes it a film you don't want to miss!

The storyline follows Tim Thompson (Andrew Garfield), Polly Thompson (Claire Foy), and their technology-driven children as they begin to navigate life in the country after leaving their home in the city. The family must rely on each other to make this new lifestyle work. Their children, Francesca (Billie Gadsdon), Bethany (Delilah Bennett-Cardy), and Joseph (Phoenix Laroche) discover a magical tree that leads them to mythical worlds, new friends, and various adventures.

The set designs and the landscapes are some of my favorite aspects. The intricate details and the colorful atmosphere in the magical lands truly bring the film to life. My favorite land is the Land of Birthdays due to its fun nature and whimsical atmosphere. Also, I found birthday wishes coming true in an instant, an interesting concept. The comedy is a major part in making the film what it is. There are funny moments throughout the movie that keep it lighthearted, and the character who keeps it this way is Silky (Nicola Coughlan). Silky keeps a humorous dynamic with most of the interactions she has and continues to be my favorite through the film. I enjoyed the character development of the individual characters, but also for the family as a whole. It is refreshing to witness the relationship between the parents and children grow stronger as the film progresses. Parent-child disconnect is real and this film conveys this issue through Tim trying time and time again to save the family dynamic.

The film's message is to never forget that there is more to life than what you see on a screen. Throughout the film, the children seem to have been corrupted by technology, and have lost the real meaning of childhood. Not only do they lose a sense of reality, but they begin to lose themselves along the way. The film portrays how people can overcome that.

I give The Magic Faraway Tree 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases in cinemas on August 21, 2026. Be sure to check it out!

The storyline starts with a troubled family living in a classic suburban neighborhood. Everything looks perfectly normal until some strange things start occurring like an ancient plant appearing in someone's backyard. Later, the family wakes up with their whole neighborhood planted in ancient dinosaur times. We follow their adventure as they attempt to survive while their whole neighborhood is being attacked by carnivorous dinosaurs.

I really enjoyed watching this film. I love the story and the actors' ability to connect with each other. The plot develops logically and makes perfect sense. The CGI and special effects are quite incredible. I especially like when a giant dinosaur walks past the family's window and you can only see a close-up of fur. Another part that is absolutely amazing is when the family attempts to escape their neighborhood and ends up at the edge of the cliff as if their whole neighborhood has just been cut out of the land and placed in the past. This scene is absolutely unforgettable. It is quite hard to picture my favorite part of the film, but I would pick a part at the very beginning when the family's grumpy neighbor, Mel (P. J. Byrne) walks up angrily to the mom, Denise (Anne Hathaway), and yells at her about her dog. She firmly replies that if he ever points a gun at her dog she will burn his house down. This shows how much the family loves their dog, Starbuck (Buzz and Brisket). Denise (Anne Hathaway) is my favorite character because she shows her emotional pain through the screen, which gives the film an emotional touch. Anne Hathaway connects to the other cast members so well, making them seem like they are actually a family.

The film's message is to always be thankful for what you have. It begins with Denise wondering if this is what she really wanted for her life and, when the tragedy happens she becomes more thankful than ever. Be forewarned that there is bloody, gory violence, and a little sexual behavior.

I give The End Of Oak Street 5 out of 5 stars and recommend this film for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released in theaters August 14, 2026.

The story follows Ryder and the Paw Patrol pups after a powerful storm strands them on a hidden island where dinosaurs still roam. There, they meet Rex, a dino obsessed Bernese Mountain Dog who knows everything there is to know about the prehistoric creatures and helps guide the team through the island. Meanwhile, their longtime rival, Mayor Humdinger, creates chaos by mining for diamonds, accidentally awakening a volcano and putting everyone, including the dinosaurs, in danger. It's up to Ryder, the pups, and Rex to work together, save the island, and prove once again that no rescue is too big and no pup is too small.

The animation is vibrant, colorful, and absolutely stunning, bringing the lush dinosaur island to life with beautiful landscapes and exciting action sequences. Every dinosaur is full of personality, while the pups remain just as lovable as ever. The talented voice cast helps every character feel fun, relatable, and memorable. One of the biggest highlights is meeting Rex (Hayden Chamberlen), who gives the courageous pup so much heart and humor. Rex uses a high-tech wheeled harness for his hind legs, and it's especially meaningful that Hayden, who uses a wheelchair in real life, brings authentic representation to the role. McKenna Grace once again shines as the voice of Skye, bringing warmth, confidence, and bravery to one of the franchise's most beloved pups.

The film's message is about teamwork, courage, kindness, and believing in yourself. It reminds us that everyone has unique strengths and that differences can become superpowers when we work together. The film also celebrates inclusion through Rex's character, showing that heroes come in many forms. With positive messages, exciting adventure, plenty of laughs, and no inappropriate content, this is a cute, safe, and family-friendly movie that Paw Patrol fans will resonate with and it might create a lot of new Paw Patrol fans.

I give Paw Patrol The Dino Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. It releases in theaters Friday, August 14, 2026.

By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I was surprised by Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie! The storyline is much more intense and action- packed than the previous Paw Patrol movies while keeping some of the recurring themes such as the corrupt Mayor Humdinger (Ron Pardo) and Marshall's (Carter Young) mishaps.

In Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie, a huge storm causes the PAW Patrol ship to crash on an unknown island where dinosaurs exist. The squad teams up with a local pup named Rex (Hayden Chamberlen) and a baby dinosaur to save the island from Humdinger's greedy diamond mining which causes a dormant volcano to erupt.

This adventurous film has some suspenseful scenes that kept me on the edge of my seat. One stressful scene, resulting from one of Humdinger's disasters, involves a giant dino getting stuck between two rock cliffs and it's up to the Paw Patrol's teamwork to save him. I like how the screenplay, written by Bob Barlen, Cal Brunker, Keith Chapman, incorporates nature into the scenes in creative ways. One example is how they use giant tree leaves to make hang gliders showing that, if you take the time to look for it, nature gives you everything you need. Given that the story takes place on an island, it's fun to see the Patrol get cool new jungle survival suits for their latest mission. I really like it when movies carry over common themes from a previous film in the franchise. In this case, it's Marshall's classic catchphrase, "I'm okay," which always makes me laugh. The graphics are very cutting edge, less cartoon-like, and more realistic than the previous two Paw Patrol films. But honestly, I like the old school graphics better. The official soundtrack has energetic music by the Backstreet Boys that keeps the theater vibe exciting throughout the movie.

This film's message is about teamwork, never giving up and learning from your mistakes. Ryder (Henry Bolan) consistently coaches the Paw Patrol to work together during their missions. He encourages Marshall when he gets down on himself for making mistakes by saying, "I didn't pick you because you don't make mistakes, I picked you because you are the Pup that NEVER gives up!"

Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on August 14, 2026.

This series follows the Jedi, Lah Kara (Kimiko Glenn), as she trains under Margrave Juro (Andrew Kishino). They face a major threat in the form of General Nawaam (Young Mazino) who wants to eradicate the order. At the same time, Lah Kara discovers more and more about her father, Lah Zhima (Simu Liu), and tries to reunite with him.

I enjoyed this series quite a bit, as the animation is stunning. I have never really been too exposed to the world of anime prior to viewing this, so I was really blown away by the style. The visuals really shine in the fight scenes of the show. I also love the color of the lightsabers and the backgrounds. Another thing that I like is the unique story structure. Not every episode is the same-some are more concerned with setting up the world of the series; some are more action-based; and some are based around getting to know the characters' past. The writers beautifully weave every story together so that I felt invested with the series as a whole. On that note, the story was a little tough to follow at times, with all of the lore and backstory injected in between plots. This made most of the characters somewhat confusing at first, as it's only after a couple episodes that I really started to understand the role of each person and who they are. My favorite part is Lah Kara; she is one of the very well-written characters within the series, and her character is both relatable and significant. Additionally, Kimmiko Glenn, who voices her, is very expressive and brings life to the role. This series is watchable, but not the best from the Star Wars franchise as a whole.

The series' message revolves around the theme of determination. Lah Kara is very brave and eager to go on this journey, but both her past and present create obstacles for her. Despite this, she desires to resolve her issues, which makes her even stronger and makes her character arc even more interesting.

I give Star Wars: Visions Presents - The Ninth Jedi 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can catch the series on Disney Plus and Hulu beginning Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

By Ashish S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I absolutely love Star Wars: Visions Presents-The Ninth Jedi because of its amazing plot and terrific writing. Also, the beautiful animation, wonderful voice acting, and epic fight scenes are very notable.

This series takes place after the events that took place in Star Wars: Visions and continues the story of Lah Kara (Kimiko Glenn) and the rest of the "master-less Jedi," including Juro (Andrew Kishino) and Homen (Patrick Seitz), as they fight to gather allies to rebuild the Jedi order and stop the malevolent Nawaam (Young Mazino) and his evil empire. This series adds new characters like Nawaam, the main antagonist of the show, and keeps some original characters like Gramps (JP Karliak), one of my favorites. As the story progresses, we learn more and more about the characters and their past.

The plot of this series is fantastic; it fully immersed me in the amazing storyline. Every time an episode ended, I was dying to see what would happen next. I must commend Mitsuyasu Sakai for writing an absolute masterpiece, with terrific characters that make it that much more compelling. Watching the characters develop is amazing and the way the characters' pasts unfold throughout the story is perfect. I haven't watched much anime, but I felt the beauty of the art in this series must be unique. The lightsabers, the way everyone's hair moves with the wind, the absolute attention to detail that went into all of this is impressive. The voice actors are so good that it sometimes feels as if the characters are actually speaking to you. The fighting scenes are awesome; seeing the different fighting styles and the way the characters clash with each other is amazing. Honestly, putting lightsabers and anime together is pure genius. The fast pace of anime and the bright flashiness of a lightsaber go together like peanut butter and jelly. My favorite part is the final battle between Nawaam and Kara, because it is both an epic fight, and it's a perfect end to one of my favorite stories in all of Star Wars.

The show's message is that our emotions make us who we are and we must accept them instead of suppress them. Note that this show does have strong violent scenes and depictions of death that some viewers may find disturbing, as well as some mild profanity.

I give Star Wars: Visions Presents-The Ninth Jedi 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can find it now on Disney Plus and Hulu.

Dusty, aka "The Hammer" (Jake Johnson) grew up as a tennis prodigy. Encouraged by his coach, who is also his father (Ed Harris), Dusty suffers an accident preventing him from playing tennis. After his accident, Dusty becomes a pretty bitter person. Now, as a 40-year-old who still works for his dad, Dusty finds himself having to make a difficult choice and accept new challenges if he wants to make his dad proud. PJ (Aaron Chen) is Dusty's best friend and number one fan who provides comic relief in every scene. On his journey, Dusty also forges a new friendship with Candace (Mary Steenburgen) who challenges Dusty to try new things.

I really enjoy how the story centers on one character, Dusty, and how he is managing his relationships with family, friends, and himself while using the rivalry between tennis and pickleball as a subplot. The conflict between the two sports is hilarious. I love that the film shows how everyone is good at something, regardless of age and perceived ability. I also like the pacing of the film and how it primarily focuses on the main character over a short period of his life. Most of the scenes are set at the tennis club or the pickleball courts. My favorite part is all of the celebrity cameos and how Dusty gets his new nickname.

The film's message is that it is never too late to create the version of yourself that you want to be. The film also focuses on the importance of being open-minded and willing to try new things. Parents should be advised that the film contains profanity and some sexual references.

I give The Dink 4 out 5 stars and recommend the film for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Dink releases on Apple TV July 24, 2026.

The majority of the story takes place four or five years after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Peter Parker (Tom Holland) is still dealing with the repercussions of the choice he made to make the world, even his girlfriend, MJ (Zendaya), and his best friend, Ned (Jacob Batalon), forget who he was. Peter deals with many villains in this film, but they all pale in comparison to his newest, and probably strongest foe (Sadie Sink).

Spider-Man: Brand New Day delivers a heartfelt, fun to watch, visually-stunning moviegoing experience. Despite not having as much levity as its predecessors, this film brings some lightness and humor to a story that could skew dark and sad. Something the director, Destin Daniel Cretton, set out to do from the beginning, is give audiences a down to earth, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. The appearances of the Punisher (Jon Bernthal) and the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) add fan-favorite characters that have been missed since Punisher's last appearance in 2025 on Daredevil: Born Again, and Hulk's way back in 2022 on She Hulk: Attorney at Law. We also get some comic relief, including a scene that'll be remembered in the sauna she calls her office, from one of The New Avengers, Black Widow (Florence Pugh). Detective Jean DeWolff (Liza Col�n-Zayas) provides Peter with a heartfelt lifeline and a reminder of the importance of family, even in a world where he has been forgotten by the people he loves. The cinematography emphasizes intimate, street-level perspectives making New York City and Brooklyn feel like they are characters in the storyline. The falling and jumping scenes are some of the best and most immersive and really made me feel like I was riding along with Spider-Man throughout the movie. The action sequences blend real actors and sets with CGI seamlessly, creating a larger than life experience that still feels concrete and possible. The score is another standout piece of the film, connecting you into the action and emotions of the characters as they move through the story.

The film's message is about how people are not always what they seem and that pain will always pass, as long as you can let it go. It also addresses the importance of friendship, being true to who you are, and how taking care of yourself is so critical, especially when living in stressful times. Parents should be aware that there is a lot of gun violence (thanks to the Punisher) but it is not bloody and gory. There are also scenes that convincingly mimic a panic attack, which may be hard for some viewers.

I give Spider-Man: Brand New Day 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 31, 2026.

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Spider-Man: Brand New Day brings this series to a whole new level. With action-packed fight scenes, bone-chilling mysteries, heartbreak and emotions, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is a must watch.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day follows Peter Parker (Tom Holland), aka Spider-Man, after everyone including his best friends MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) have lost memory of him. He is spending his days fighting crime and following his lost friends on social media. His efforts have brought crime rates to an all-time low. However, there is trouble in paradise. A threat is arising -- one that most cannot see, let alone control. Now, he must find a way to defeat his unknown foe as well as get these changes happening to him under control.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is yet another great installment in the Spider-Man series. The plot is mind-bending. It has a perfect set up and suspense. Villains, motives, and plans kept me on the edge of my seat. And let's not forget the emotions, because this film is a rollercoaster. I laughed too, because the writers did not pass up a chance to make a good joke and, admittedly, almost cried, because this movie doesn't go easy on tragedy. It is admirable how the characters really stay true to themselves. I love how protagonists and even some antagonists learn from each other and become better people. It gives Peter Parker a touch of reality that makes Spider-Man, well, Spider-Man. The visuals are on point. The textures are so clear I feel I could touch them (I swear I felt Spider-Man's suit!) like I am right next to Spider-Man fighting crime and saving the day. The scenery pops out: the homes and cities feel lived in, like places I have been to before -the labs gave me a bad vibe just looking at them; dark alleys made me want to turn around and check if anyone was behind me. And then there's the special effects! The fine details turn this amazing movie into a piece of art. An honorable mention goes to the music: it is there to raise the energy right when a fight is about to break out and to wrap heartbreak into a beautiful sound.

The film's message is that repressing who you are won't help anyone. When you start to change, embrace it and grow. Note that there are many graphic scenes of fighting, shooting, blood, as well as mild profanity and risky behaviors children may imitate.

I give Spider-Man: Brand New Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Spider-Man: Brand New Day releases in theaters July 31, 2026.

By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Spider-man Brand New Day is a disappointing Spider-Man film, with great sets and amazing fight choreography, but beyond that, it fails at being a true Spider-Man movie. This isn't a bad film--it's just a bad Spider-Man film.

The storyline follows a forgotten Peter Parker (Tom Holland) who lives by himself as a full-time Spider-Man until increasing pressure causes a risky shift and the appearance of a formidable new foe.

The biggest weakness is that this movie spends too much time setting up a larger corner of the MCU rather than telling a compelling Spider-Man story. As a longtime fan of the comics and films, I was extremely disappointed. On the plus side, the action sequences are some of the best I've seen in a superhero movie--no surprise with Destin Daniel Cretton directing. The fight choreography is outstanding, the visuals are impressive, and the performances are excellent. However, after waiting four years, my high expectations were shattered almost immediately. The film skips nearly four years of Peter Parker's life. After the heartbreaking ending of No Way Home, I wanted to see him rebuild his life from nothing. Instead, it jumps ahead and expects us to emotionally reconnect in a matter of minutes. Because we never witness his journey during those missing years, emotional scenes that should hit hard end up falling flat. That wouldn't have bothered me as much if the film stayed focused on Spider-Man. Instead, it splits its attention with Sadie Sink's character. Her performance is fine, but Peter's story feels sidelined to make room for hers. As a fan, I missed the core struggle, balance, and loneliness that define Peter Parker. The film starts to explore those ideas, but never commits. I don't hate this movie--there are parts I genuinely enjoyed. But No Way Home set up what could have been the most personal Spider-Man story yet, and Brand New Day sacrifices that to launch another storyline entirely. When I walked out of the theater, I was thinking about Sadie Sink's character and the future of the MCU rather than Spider-Man. That's the film's biggest failure.

This film's message is that you can't do everything alone, and it's conveyed through Peter's Journey throughout the film.

I give Spider-Man: Brand New Day 2.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in cinemas on July 31, 2026. Be sure to look for it.

The short film follows two main protagonists, a young girl named Gerda and a young boy named Kai. The two are close friends and spend most of their time together until Kai is pierced in the heart and the eye by glass shards from the Snow Queen's evil mirror. When a child is pierced by shards from the mirror, they acquire uncharacteristic qualities of behaving coldly and cruelly. The Snow Queen then takes Kai far away to her snow palace, and Gerda puts every effort towards locating him. She journeys far and long, meeting various characters, both helpful and harmful, along the way. In the end, Gerda must do everything it takes to melt the cruel spell of the Snow Queen.

The storytelling and representation of positive themes are the standout aspects of The Snow Queen. The story is engaging throughout, with all major plot points clearly explained. Additionally, the animation plays an important role in telling the story and conveying many of the central themes. The animated backgrounds are beautiful and captivated me throughout. Specifically, the animation of the snowy hills and the river background are stunning, contributing to my consistent engagement in the film. The animation of the characters is also incredibly detailed, with the facial expressions and clothes matching each character's personality. The engaging story and breathtaking animation allow the film to deliver the themes most effectively. The positive themes make this film an excellent watch for many young children, with The Snow Queen promoting friendship.

The film's central message is that friendship and love are the most powerful forces and can truly defeat even the most evil of spells. Since this is a short filmed version, with fewer characters, it focuses almost entirely on the strength of the friendship between Gerda and Kai as a symbol of love. The Snow Queen also incorporates themes of bravery and childhood innocence, with Gerda and Kai's innocence seeming to remain intact through to the end of the film.

I give The Snow Queen 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 17

The Snow Queen is a beautifully animated and narrated film retelling of the classic story by Hans Christian Anderson in high definition. With fun characters, an amazing score, and outstanding animation, there's never a moment of boredom.

The story, entirely voiced and narrated by Sigourney Weaver, follows a young girl named Gerda as she sets off to rescue her friend Kai after he is kidnapped by the Snow Queen and taken to her palace. Along the way, she meets many humans and animals that help her on her journey to stop the Snow Queen once and for all.

The film's animation is unbelievable; everything is so fluid and lifelike. Scenes such as when the town is covered in snow and when Gerda is showing off her dress are outstandingly stunning- the entire film is beautiful to watch. The characters are so well designed, especially the titular Snow Queen; the way the colors are used in her outfits, particularly her excessive coats, which show us how she's surrounded by a constant winter. The characters are all very likeable, especially the main character, Gerda. She's always shown as trying her best, thanks to her pure heart; this makes the hardships she endures even more heartbreaking as you want the best for her. One issue I have with the film is the pacing; it's extremely fast and it's sometimes hard to understand exactly what's going on. This is specifically shown through the characters who, while enjoyable, are quickly introduced. Some don't serve much purpose to the overall plot, which means less time is used to develop more important characters such as the Snow Queen and Kai. Another remarkable aspect of the film is its score by Jason Miles. It's gorgeous and compliments every scene, giving tension to action scenes, especially towards the end, while also showing the peacefulness of winter at the beginning. It is incredible to listen to as the songs themselves are beautiful. The narration and voices by Sigourney Weaver are outstanding; not only does she deliver so many unique voices for the characters, but also conveys the perfect emotion as the narrator. Every character has a distinct voice, making it easy to tell them apart.

The film's message is not to forget or discard those that care about you, as you'll just be consumed by loneliness. Be forewarned that there are some intense action scenes throughout the film.

I give The Snow Queen 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 5 to 12. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I absolutely love The Snow Queen because of the amazing animation, the heartfelt storyline, and the beautifully orchestrated music.

Narrated by Sigourney Weaver, this short film follows two children named Gerda and Kai. One winter day, while playing happily in the snow, Kai suffers a freak accident that mysteriously changes his personality, leaving him cold-hearted, distant, and bitter. Before Gerda can understand what has happened, the powerful Snow Queen kidnaps Kai and carries him away.

Determined to rescue Kai, Gerda sets out on a journey across icy landscapes and enchanted lands where she faces countless hardships. Despite impossible odds, Gerda refuses to abandon her quest. Guided by the strength of their friendship, she presses onward, believing that love can melt even the coldest heart and free Kai from the Snow Queen's icy spell forever.

Hans Christian Andersen's imagination, memorable characters, and meaningful lessons have made his stories timeless and The Snow Queen is a wonderful example of his ability to combine fantasy with heartfelt emotion, creating a tale that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. His storytelling reminds readers of the importance of love, courage, kindness, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Props to producer Joshua M. Greene who intentionally sourced the animation to the Russian artists at the Classica Studio in Moscow to utilize the distinguished tradition of Russian animation, which trace its classical, storybook aesthetic back to the 1930s when Russian animators were originally trained by Disney. Also of note is the extraordinary work of composer Jason Miles, who created the score for this film; Miles has collaborated with legendary artists such as Miles Davis and Michael Jackson and his creativity, and innovative composition add depth and emotion to the film's soundtrack. The music beautifully complements the animation, helping every scene feel more magical, emotional, and memorable. My favorite part is the brave young girl's journey to rescue her best friend. Her determination, courage, and kindness make the adventure inspiring, and watching her overcome every obstacle shows the power of love and loyalty. Combined with the beautiful animation, heartfelt narration, and moving music, this journey becomes the emotional heart of the film and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

The moral of this film is that love, courage, and perseverance can overcome fear and evil.

I rate The Snow Queen 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it 5-12. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

Eli C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I really enjoyed The Snow Queen because of its beautiful animation, magical atmosphere, and heartfelt storytelling. The film brings Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale to life through stunning visuals and Sigourney Weaver's gentle narration, making it feel like an enchanting storybook.

The storyline follows two best friends, Gerda and Kay, whose lives are changed when the mysterious Snow Queen kidnaps Kay after a shard of an enchanted mirror enters his heart. Determined to rescue him, Gerda sets off on a long journey through snowy forests, magical gardens, and icy mountains. Along the way, she meets many interesting characters who help--or sometimes try to stop--her from reaching the Snow Queen's frozen palace. Through courage, kindness, and perseverance, Gerda learns that love and friendship are stronger than fear and coldness.

One of my favorite parts of this film is its unique storytelling style. Instead of having each character speak, Sigourney Weaver narrates the entire story, creating a calm and fairy tale-like experience that is both relaxing and engaging. The animation has a classic hand-drawn look with rich colors and imaginative designs that capture the magic of the story. My favorite scene is when Gerda finally reaches the Snow Queen's palace and confronts the icy challenges standing between her and Kay. It is emotional, suspenseful, and beautifully animated. My least favorite part is that some scenes move a bit slowly, and younger viewers who are used to fast-paced animated movies may lose interest. However, the slower pace helps create a dreamlike atmosphere that fits the story perfectly.

The film's message is that love, friendship, and determination can overcome even the coldest obstacles. It reminds viewers that kindness and courage are more powerful than anger or fear. Be forewarned that there are a few scenes that may be frightening for very young children, including magical dangers, moments of peril, and some intense images involving the Snow Queen.

The Snow Queen gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults who enjoy classic fairy tales and beautifully animated stories. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

Noah's Ark tells the classic Biblical story of Noah (James Earl Jones) who, upon hearing God's command, begins to build an enormous ark to carry representatives of all the life forms of the Earth while God sends a great flood to cleanse the world.

This film is told entirely through narration, which I was concerned would pull me out of the story. However, the script makes the narration truly great. It takes pauses at times to showcase the artwork of the animation, and never over-explains, but rather assists in making many of the scenes quite beautiful to witness, such as when animals from across the globe arrive at the ark. The animation's attention to detail with the various animals, combined with creating unique personalities for each of the animals, truly drew me into the film. I began to care for each of the creatures when I saw how each of them reacted to being on a ship for such a long period, and I was happy to see that strange and obscure animals are included in the film.

The film's message is that we all must look after one another in order to create a beautiful society. When we care for each other, and offer help in times of need, we help our world as a whole prosper.

I give Noah's Ark 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. The recently remastered high definition film is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Adele N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I enjoyed the short film Noah's Ark due to its stunning animation style and unique plot. The visuals in this film really contribute to enjoying this story in a new way.

The storyline follows the Biblical tale of a man named Noah after he is notified by God that the earth will be flooded due to the evilness of its inhabitants. To avoid meeting this fate themselves, God spares Noah and his family as they are righteous, and tells them to build a giant boat in order to protect themselves when the disaster strikes.

The film establishes in the beginning what a wicked place the world is, filled with people who are evil and cruel. There is only one good man who goes against the grain and does what is right-Noah. Due to this, God spares him from the mass destruction of humanity that he originally planned. This film is extremely different from other animated films in that there isn't any voice acting done for any of the characters. Instead, the story is told entirely visually and is narrated by James Earl Jones. His narration guides us throughout the story and enhances the experience of the viewer, especially throughout the more intense portions of the film. The animation style is incredibly vivid and detailed, while still feeling as if you're going back in time to when the story actually took place. This is present throughout the entire film, through the nature backgrounds or the design of the animals that board the ark. My favorite part is the character of Noah. His facial expressions are funny, but more importantly he is a great role model for how to lead your life. Noah is in an unprecedented situation, but because of his faith and righteousness, he is protected from the harm that other people experience.

The film's message emphasizes the importance of doing what's right, even when others are doing wrong. This shows us that, if you stick to what you know is correct, it will turn out best for you in the long run.

I give Noah's Ark 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The recently remastered high definition film is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Ashish S,, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Noah's Ark is an engaging animated retelling of a classic story. I like this film because it shares an important message about faith and perseverance, features strong narration by James Earl Jones, and tells a familiar story in a way that is easy to follow. The film combines meaningful lessons with simple but effective animation.

The story follows Noah as he receives a message from God to build an ark before a great flood covers the Earth. As Noah works on the ark, he gathers animals and prepares his family for the difficult journey ahead. When the flood arrives, Noah, his family, and the animals must stay strong and patient while waiting for the waters to recede.

The strongest part of the film is the narration by James Earl Jones who brings warmth, wisdom, and authority to the story with his recognizable voice. His performance helps make the events feel important and keeps the audience engaged from beginning to end. The animation is simple, and it effectively shows the enormous ark, the many animals, and the power of the flood. Some of the most memorable scenes show pairs of animals boarding the ark and working together during the journey. The music also helps create a sense of wonder and adventure. Together, the narration, animation, and music make the story easy to understand while highlighting the importance of Noah's experience.

The film's message focuses on faith, obedience, perseverance, and hope. Noah continues his work even when others doubt him, showing the importance of trusting what you believe is right. Be forewarned that there are scenes involving a dangerous storm and flooding, but nothing is overly intense for young viewers.

I give Noah's Ark 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The recently remastered high definition film is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

The story follows a girl named Beauty, her father, her two sisters, and a beast - all narrated by Mia Farrow. In an effort to save her father, Beauty ends up living with the Beast and, as time goes on, she learns to trust her heart and not her eyes. While Beauty is learning how to understand the Beast, her sisters need to learn how to embrace happiness in their lives rather than bitterness.

This project stylized, 30-minute animated short utilizes traditional cell animation based on Mordicai Gerstein's book illustration style. I love how Gerstein keeps the same quality as the Beauty and the Beast that I know and love. It's straight out of the book but animated to make the movements look a lot smoother than they are in the actual book. I love how Mia Farrow narrates this film. It feels like I was being read to while having amazing visuals at all times. I think it's a great way to have a story read to your kids while not actually reading to them. Thanks to Earnest Troost, the composer, as the music matches perfectly with the images to create a wonderful experience. While the story is the same as the original; it definitely has its own spin. My favorite part is when Beauty finally tells the Beast that she loves him because this is the start of their happy ending together and I believe that every good person deserves a happy ending.

The film's message is to be positive and not let negative emotions cloud your heart. It reminds us that looks can deceive so don't let them be the first thing you trust. Last is the message that being kind will always get you further than being negative.

I give Beauty and the Beast 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12 and adults would like it also. Available to watch now on Tubi: https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

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

I enjoyed watching the animated short film, Beauty and the Beast! It is a very creative and entertaining film that follows the timeless fairy tale originally published in 1740 by French author Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve. The short film displays many different ideas, including a new twist that is very cool.

The storyline follows a young girl named Beauty (Mia Farrow) and how she takes her father's place to spare his life and is forced to live with the Beast (Mia Farrow) in his castle. Later on she finds out he is really a handsome prince and not an ugly beast.

The film's key takeaway is that love requires sacrifice and selflessness. This can be an important message for all viewers because it shows that love can be difficult and complicated. What makes this film stand out to me are the similar moments and symbols that are shared between the original story and this film. Compared to the original story, the red rose is a key symbol which explains time and how opportunities for change or love do not last forever. This is shared in this adaptation of the original story. Something I took note of on how the film looks is how it looks like a page from a storybook. I really admired this concept and felt it added more to this simple story. I did notice that characters are missing, added, or changed up a bit. The leading character is named Beauty, although in the original story she is known as Belle. But, they are still the same character. Because this film is structured as an audiobook-style animated storybook rather than a traditional multi-cast movie, Farrow serves as the sole narrator and voices all the characters. This shows a lot of creativity on the part of the filmmaker. One thing that makes this stand out is the original classical soundtrack, composed by Emmy winner Ernest Troost, which adds depth and emotion without overwhelming the narrative. My favorite part is when the Beast is revealed to be a handsome young prince. It reveals the takeaway from the film, and also shows us how Beauty didn't realize who she was talking to the whole time.

The film promotes a heartfelt message about love and sacrifices.

I give Beauty and the Beast 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8, plus adults. The newly remastered version is available to watch now on Tubi: https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Adrianna R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Beauty and the Beast is a beautiful retelling of a classic French fairy tale remastered in high definition animation. It's easy to get invested in the story and the characters, and the technical aspects are outstanding. From the music to the visuals, every part of the film feels truly magical.

The story, narrated and voiced by Mia Farrow, follows Beauty, as her father, after losing his money and taking a rose from a castle, is forced by a beast to either stay with him forever or give up one of his daughters. Feeling that this was her fault, as she had asked for a rose, Beauty volunteers to live in the beast's castle, leaving her family forever. When she arrives, she's given everything she asks for by the beast, yet she tries her hardest to escape and see her family once again.

The film's animation is breathtaking; everything is drawn gorgeously and the film looks stunning. This is especially true in the character designs - everyone is distinctly drawn, and their personality traits shine through in how they look. For example, Beauty's sisters, who are mean and posh, look mean and spiteful even in the way they are illustrated. This is enhanced by the wonderful use of colors within environments such as the castle - everything looks unbelievable. One issue I do have is the lack of full range animation; while beautiful, all the characters and environments are somewhat stiff. This is due to how the story is told, as each scene has only a couple of frames and, while pretty, there is a noticeable lack of movement. The story is incredibly well paced, and it's easy to get invested into Beauty's personal story. I felt sorry for her as she's shown to be kind and caring and her relationships seem to develop naturally. This is supported by the phenomenal voice work by Mia Farrow, as her narration perfectly encapsulates not only the characters themselves, but also the action. I particularly enjoyed the score, composed by Ernest Troost, as it helps enhance emotions while being engaging just to listen to. When Beauty is with her family having fun, the music is slow and comfortable, then in scenes such as when her father is caught by the beast, it becomes intense. The score itself is beautifully composed and majestic to listen to.

The film's message is to not judge people by how they look, nor take what you have for granted. Be forewarned that there are some images or scenes that are intense or frightening.

I give Beauty and the Beast 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The newly remastered version is available to watch now on Tubi: https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

Merlin and the Dragons follows a young King Arthur (Kevin Kline) and his feelings of inadequacy after his crowning. When he awakes from a night terror, he seeks out his friend and advisor, the wizard Merlin (Kevin Kline) for assistance. From there, we begin the story of a boy long ago... who bears shocking resemblance to Arthur's own situation.

What I find most enjoyable about Merlin and the Dragons is the style of animation used. The background in the very first scene used watercolor portraits for the sky, a theme that continues throughout the rest of the film. It is reminiscent of fantasy movies such as Cinderella, and really sets the mood for the story unfolding. The characters themselves are animated in a way that is not used in mainstream media anymore. They are two dimensional and roughly drawn, and I found that it makes each of the characters feel more raw and personalized-as if I had opened up a storybook and peered inside. Additionally, the film isn't dulled by its own plotline. Like many, when I think about King Arthur, my first thought goes to the infamous story of The Sword in the Stone. I feared that I may be rewatching a story that has been told for centuries, but was pleased to find that the movie features entirely different elements (such as dragons), which made me genuinely interested in where the film was going.

This film is a tale of how having confidence in yourself ultimately brings you great rewards. Though self-doubt is a trait no one can fully avoid. This film reminds us that when we put trust in our actions, we succeed.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Adele N, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I absolutely adore Merlin and the Dragons because of the amazing storyline, the unique animation, and the expert voice acting.

This short animated film begins with a young King Arthur as he is plagued by nightmares. Arthur consults Merlin of these nightmares; in return Merlin tells Arthur a story of a boy named Emrus who dreams of the future. One day one of Emrus' predictions came true, but the villagers call it witchcraft and claim that he must have been spawned by a demon. Emrus dreams of a tyrant coming to the village, and just as he had foreseen, one arrives and immediately takes over. After facing trouble building his tower, the tyrant blames magical forces. Eventually Emrus' dreams of the tyrant's downfall and in the end, Arthur is able to sleep well.

I absolutely love the storyline of this film. I like how Jane Yolen, the screenwriter, makes it accurate to Arthurian lore. The way the story is delivered made me feel like a little kid hearing a story told to me by my mom. The movie was made in the early 90s, but the animation has been re-mastered so it gives a certain aesthetic that makes it feel like I'm watching a book. I also think that the animation gives older viewers a sense of nostalgia, and younger viewers a look at what TV was like when the film was originally created. I also like how Kevin Klein voices all of the characters. It truly amazes me how Kevin Kline can voice everyone in the film perfectly. He manages to sometimes make me forget he voices everyone. My favorite part is when the villagers crack open the rocks under the tyrant's tower and something magical happens.

The film's message is to always trust yourself no matter what anyone says.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to18, plus adults. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

By Ari C., KIDS FIRST Film Critics, age 13

Merlin and the Dragons is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about an outcast who realizes his differences are what make him who he is. The animation is good - it doesn't have the wow factor of a full blown animated film, yet it still enables you to empathize with the characters.

The story takes place when King Arthur has pulled the sword from the stone and is dealing with feelings of inadequacy. Merlin tells him a story of a boy who did not know who his father was and spent most of his childhood ridiculed by the other kids. He uses visions of the future to impress them, but when he takes it too far, the townsfolk shun him even more, to the point where he must live on a hill far away. Then, a false king comes to their town and makes them build him a castle. The townspeople build it, and it falls down; they build it again, and still it falls; before building it again, they "must find a boy who was born from a demon and spill his blood" to make the gods happy so they will let his tower be built. That boy is the same boy from earlier, which leads to a chaotic fight with dragons, the dethroning of the false king, and more.

Merlin and the Dragons has some truly great details worth appreciating. The animation starts off feeling a little clunky and rough around the edges, but it soon finds its footing and transforms into something really fun to watch. The improvement feels like it might have been intentional, as if trying to mirror the story's momentum. I especially love the design of the dragons. They struck me immediately as a kind of yin and yang. The two creatures look weirdly similar on the surface, sharing the same forms, but they stand for two completely different things, embodying two forces in a way that feels both visually elegant and helpful to the story.

The film's message is that our differences are what make us who we are. It includes themes of found family, fighting, and love. Parents should be aware that there is a fight scene between the two dragons; it is very short and there is no blood but it may be frightening for younger kids. There is also a mention of beheading, but it does not happen.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember.

The storyline follows Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock), known as Supergirl, who is Superman's cousin. She is trying to figure out her life before coming across an unlikely person who needs her help to fight a battle against Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts). The constant fighting creates both allies and enemies.

The main characters are Kara Zor-El (Supergirl), Ruthye Marye Knoll (Eve Ridley), Superman (David Corenswet), Krem, and Lobo (Jason Momoa). Milly Alcock wonderfully represents Kara's determination and emotional side, especially in scenes where she struggles to balance her Kryptonian past with her life on Earth. It addresses people finding themselves throughout life. This is something a lot of people struggle with and I like that Kara's journey can help viewers not feel so alone. Kara isn't a glamorous superhero. She's different from others in that she isn't really well put together, which I think makes her character interesting. On the other hand, the other characters don't feel well developed and their roles don't enhance the backstory very much. They aren't really connected and lack interaction. The costumes, however, are extremely well-made - the aliens look very realistic, as close to what I imagine aliens actually look like! It definitely has an outer space mood. The visual effects are impressive, and the battle scenes are filled with fantastic sound effects. However, at times, the CGI is not very convincing, especially when Supergirl is flying. Also, the soundtrack is disappointing, especially when sad pop songs play during a huge battle scene - it's a complete mismatch. For the most part, the plot feels very expected and I could guess exactly what would happen next. It's similar to every superhero movie without extra things to spice it up. My favorite part is when Kara embraces her powers during a huge battle scene. The camera rotates in a circle while everything is in slow motion. It's definitely an impactful scene.

The film's message is about choosing the right thing to do, even when it may be difficult. Ruthye wants to avenge her family's death and kill Krem, but Supergirl assures her that it won't make her life any better. Revenge isn't always the answer, but the right decisions do matter. Be forewarned that there is some intense action and fighting, but nothing too extreme for most older kids.

I give Supergirl 3.5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Supergirl releases in theaters June 26, 2026.

Minions & Monsters is the backstory of the Minions (Pierre Coffin) before Despicable Me (2010). It follows the Minions through all of their previous leaders and then into Hollywood in the 1920s as they make a monster movie. Of course, things don't go as planned and they end up having to save the planet after creating monsters from an old spell-book. The plot fluctuates between two storylines involving the Minion protagonists, James, Henry and Ed, as they create the monsters for their movie vs. the rest of the Minion gang who eventually hook up with their new leader Dort (Jesse Eisenberg), an alien robot, and Debbie (Zoey Deutch), a women's activist, to create a small love story with a twist that brings it all together in the end.

The comedy in Minions & Monsters is exactly what you'd expect from a Minion's movie. The Minions' random made-up language mixed with real words from different languages is still one of the funniest parts. Something that really stands out is how much the animation keeps getting better with each Minions movie. The characters look smoother; the colors brighter; and the action scenes are immersive. I especially like the scenes with the biggest monster, Irene, because the special effects make her incredibly life-like and unforgettable. I also like how the Minions' outfits match the time period. From the 1920s' sweaters to the classic overalls, it's a small detail but it makes the movie feel even more creative. My most favorite part is how the directors (Pierre Coffin, Patrick Delage) and writers (Pierre Coffin, Bryan Lynch) incorporate small surprise details at the beginning of the movie and throughout the credits. Be sure to stay until the very end to avoid missing out on these comical surprises!

This film's message is about loyalty. The Minions may be goofy and accident-prone but they never give up on each other. No matter how impossible things seem, they stick together, proving that real friendship means standing by the people you care about - even when everything goes completely bananas.

Minions & Monsters gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters on July 1, 2026.

By Ryker N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I enjoy Minions & Monsters because it has an entertaining comedic style and a fun story line. I love the use of humor and references to old Hollywood movies and actors.

Minions & Monsters is the third Minion's spin off, and the storyline holds its own and can be enjoyed without seeing the other films. In this animated, fictional, autobiography of the Minions, one Minion, James (Pierre Coffin) has chronicled the journey of the Minions on their search to find the perfect villain to serve. James has always been a dreamer and is continuously wanting to create art. Ultimately landing in Los Angeles in the 1920s, James becomes enthralled with Hollywood and his life ambition is to create the perfect movie.

The voice talents bring each character to life and enhance the quality of the story telling. For example, Trey Parker voices Goomi and his voice creates the perfect unsuspecting monster, who you want to trust, but at the same time has a hint of devious energy. I like how in-depth the animation goes with its attention to detail and bold colors. Each part of the Minions' journey is brought to life with beautiful scenes that James creates with details of adventure, humor, and friendship. My favorite part is when the Minions get to 1920s Hollywood - the historical references to the time period and the references to early Hollywood and films are fun to watch. There are references to several classic films such as The Trip to the Moon and Citizen Kane that help bring the story to life. I love that the film includes lots of content and humor for older audiences to enjoy.

I give Minions & Monsters 4 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Minions & Monsters releases in theaters July 1, 2026.

By Julie O. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I like Minions & Monsters because it has funny moments and good animation.

The movie Minions & Monsters is the third prequel to the Minions series of movies which are a spin-off of the Despicable Me movies. Minions & Monsters takes place in 1920s Hollywood and follows a new group of Minions: James, Henry, and Ed (all voiced by Pierre Coffin) who are trying to make a movie about monsters while the rest of their Minion clan searches for their next "Big Boss" to serve.

I liked watching this movie with its funny moments that had me laughing the whole time. For example, the Minions lose their initial Big Boss when he steps on a Minion-made LEGO brick, triggering a destructive chain reaction that results in his entire house breaking down and the Big Boss falling off a cliff. Another example is when James, Henry and Ed summon a monster from a magical book hoping it will be the star of their monster movie. The picture of the monster in the book shows a huge scary monster, but when the monster arrives, it is just a small little thing. While James, Henry, and Ed are busy conjuring and then battling monsters, the rest of their Minion clan find their next Big Boss, a robot alien named Dort (Jesse Eisenburg) who is determined to destroy Earth. In a funny twist, Dort surprises the Minions by putting off Earth domination so that he can go on dates with a human girl instead. Best of all, this movie has some really good animation that is very nice to look at and kept me invested.

The film's message is that you do not have to be the same as everyone else to be successful.

Minions & Monsters gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 1, 2026.

The storyline follows Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt), a local TV meteorologist and Dr. Daniel Kellner (Josh O'Connor), a cybersecurity expert, who must work together to expose the secrets of a government conspiracy surrounding UFO activity. While wrestling with their conscience, they are pursued by authorities from Wardex, a secret corporate agency that plans to suppress the truth from the public.

The main cast members are Margaret Fairchild, Dr. Daniel Kellner, Noah Scanlon (Colin Firth), Jane Blankenship (Eve Hewson), Hugo Wakefield (Colman Domingo) and Jackson (Wyatt Russell). Emily Blunt brings emotional depth to her character through her ability to evoke a sense of vulnerability and compassion as she is faced with the reality of non-human entities. Impressively, she takes on multiple linguistic challenges as the film features her character speaking in three languages which deepen the alien conspiracy. Some of the languages she speaks are Russian, Korean and even an alien tongue. In the most pivotal scene, Blunt provides an authentic performance by creating unsettling alien clicking sounds in one take, adding an edge to her character. Colman Domingo contributes a calming presence to Hugo through his slight mannerisms and welcoming gestures. He convincingly portrays a rebellious but soft-spoken leader who causes two of the main characters' worlds to intertwine. When it comes to the soundtrack, John Williams delivers something more subtle compared to his usual bold themes. The score not only complements the film, but also stays true to the traditional orchestration, while adding nostalgia. In terms of the story's pacing, the first act establishes the stakes right away by jumping right into the action. The chase scenes involving authorities from Wardex and the train collision, add intensity and spectacle. As the film progresses, it balances high-octane action with contemplative moments, which spark hope amidst the bleak setting. Although every aspect feels balanced, the finale falls flat due to a convenient plot device which lacks consistent rules.

The film's message explores the importance of preserving humanity and the ethics behind having the right to know the truth vs carrying the burden of the truth. Be aware, there are instances of death, violence and mild profanity.

Disclosure Day gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theatres beginning June 12, 2026.

By Ilana O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 18

Steven Spielberg and John Williams have created another suspenseful thriller together. Disclosure Day starts in the middle of the story and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the film. Every new discovery raises more questions, making the story exciting from the beginning to end.

Disclosure Day is a sci-fi thriller exploring what happens when humanity receives undeniable proof that extraterrestrial life exists. The story revolves around a government-led conspiracy to keep the secret hidden, and a determined group trying to "disclose" the truth to a divided world on the brink of war. The storyline follows two main characters caught in the middle of a high-stakes struggle.

I began to question what was going on right away as Daniel Kellner (Josh O'Connor) is constantly being chased for a strange device he has stolen. When Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt) suddenly finds herself with new powers, she is confused and manages to connect with Daniel. Together, they have to outsmart their pursuers as they find the truth about themselves. All the actors give genuine and engaging performances, portraying many raw emotions throughout the film. Josh O'Connor brings a sense of intelligence and persistence to his character, Daniel. His performance builds mystery as he explains why he is being chased to his girlfriend Jane (Eve Hewson). Emily Blunt connects the audience to her character and makes us feel her discomfort and anxiety. Through her performance, we can feel her fear, determination and curiosity as she looks for answers about the strange events happening around her. Coleman Domingo brings authority to his character, Hugo Wakefield, who often has to make difficult decisions. Domingo is calm and grounded and shows the importance of those choices. Eve Hewson brings warmth and compassion to her character, Jane Blankenship. She helps balance the tension of the movie with emotional moments and reminds us of the importance of supporting and trusting others during difficult times. The visuals in Disclosure Day are stunning. The fast cuts and closeups add to the film's suspense. John Williams' score adds even more intensity to the film. The music enhances the fast editing and helps build extreme moments; it also creates a feeling of shock during the movie's biggest revelations.

The film emphasizes the power of trusting your gut, embracing differences, staying curious, and finding courage. Faced with difficult choices, the characters learn that instinct usually leads to the right decision, and that accepting people who are different makes the world far more meaningful. Ultimately, it encourages us to face the unknown with curiosity and to keep moving forward even when we are afraid. Be forewarned that there is some profanity and intense scenes that might be scary for younger audiences.

I give Disclosure Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on June 12, 2026.

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Disclosure Day really has me astonished! If you think E.T. - the Extra-Terrestrial is out of this world, hold on to your seats as Spielberg delivers another stunning story about humanity encountering the unknown.

Disclosure Day centers around humans realizing that as a species on Earth, we may not be alone. The story follows two main characters, Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt) and Dr. Daniel Kellner (Josh O'Connor), as they get pulled into an incredible mystery that could change everything. Along the way, they have to face many obstacles, surprising allies and impossible choices. They also have to deal with the mysterious Noah Scanlon (Colin Firth), whose plans create suspense and keep you guessing about who can really be trusted.

Disclosure Day is packed full of action, mystery, funny moments and incredible visual effects that make it exciting from beginning to end. The creative twists are endless. Some of my favorite parts are when Margaret and Daniel get themselves out of sticky situations with their special abilities. It is creepy but impressive to see some of the special effects involving the characters' eyes. I like the clever ways the movie shows interactions between humans, animals, and the visitors which makes those scenes feel both mystical and heartwarming. The news footage is so realistic that it makes me wonder if other beings really do exist! Lastly, being from Kansas City, I especially like that Margaret's news station is based in Kansas City which makes the movie feel a little more personal and fun to watch for me.

This film's message is to stand up for what you believe in. The movie made me wonder if there are things in the universe that we still don't understand and reminded me to listen and keep an open mind while looking for real evidence. Note that there are some scary scenes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Disclosure Day gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters on June 12, 2026.

By Ryker N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I LOVE Disclosure Day! This is an enjoyable high-stakes story that had me wondering what was going to happen without being overly suspenseful.

Directed by Steven Spielberg from his own original storyline, this sci-fi film explores the groundbreaking revelation that aliens exist and we are not alone in the universe. Brought together by fate, two strangers embark on a high-stakes journey: Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt), a weather reporter with the power to read people's lives, and Dr. Daniel Keller (Josh O'Connor), a scientist in hiding after attempting to leak classified corporate secrets. As they flee, they are joined by Jane Blankenship (Eve Hewson), Dr. Keller's girlfriend, who is harboring deep secrets of her own. Meanwhile, Noah Scanlon (Colin Firth), the ruthless head of Keller's former company, leads a relentless hunt to stop the leak at all costs.

While Disclosure Day has similar plot elements to other alien sci-fi movies it also stands out on its own. The main objective is to get information out to the public instead of focusing on specific alien encounters. The talented cast brings the movie to life and adds a depth to the storytelling that you don't usually see in these types of movies. I love the beautiful backgrounds and attention to detail in every scene. I also appreciate the humor that keeps the story from becoming too suspenseful and adds a sense of reality to it. My favorite part is when all of the people come together to watch the disclosure message. This sums up the objective of the main characters and shows a shared human experience in a meaningful way.

The film's message is that overcoming old challenges, even if they are difficult to face, can help as you push forward into the future. Parents should be advised that there is some violence throughout the film, sexual references, and mild profanity.

I give Disclosure Day 5 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Disclosure Day releases in theaters June 12, 2026.

The storyline follows Patrick (Tim Perez-Ross), a loving, caring father who moves with his family to a new neighborhood. When his daughter Anna (Joey Victoria Lezama) makes her school's competitive cheer team, Patrick unexpectedly becomes the assistant coach. Anna struggles with challenging cheer skills like tumbling, but Patrick supports her and encourages her. He helps the team prepare for an important competition by motivating the squad and inspiring them to work together and believe in themselves.

The film portrays real-life scenarios at both school and cheer practice. Anna is so relatable as she struggles with sticking to activities and putting in the right amount of practice to succeed. Patrick has such funny moments, like when he feels excluded from the parties with the cheer moms where he would break down in the car and stuff his face with cookies. I also love the cheer moms, since they are so funny and lively. I especially love when they had a dance party to "Apple Bottom Jeans" to hype up the cheer squad before their competition.

The film's message is that having someone who truly believes in you can motivate you to work hard and achieve things you never thought possible. The film also shows how family isn't always by blood but by the people who love and support you. This is shown through Patrick and Anna's close bond, even though Anna is adopted and they aren't related.

I give Cheer Dad 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It releases on VOD and streaming on June 5, 2026.

By Raasti K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love Cheer Dad because of the laughs it gives me, how it resonates with me, and how real it feels. Throughout this film I was chuckling, saying "that's actually how it is," and "I swear that that's happened to me before."

The storyline follows a man named Patrick (Tim Parez - Ross) and his daughter, Anna (Joey Victoria Lezama) as they enter a world of drama, excitement, and toe touches also known as competitive cheer. As they navigate this world of competition, Patrick must find a way to manage his work life, family, and his new duties as assistant coach. While Patrick has a lot of struggles, Anna has some of her own-the cheer life is exciting, but Anna is getting bored doing the same things at practice, that is until her dad joins the team as assistant coach. At first, it's fun to have him with her, but eventually it gets hard hearing criticism from her own dad. Together these two need to make it through the hardships of cheer and win nationals.

This film isn't drop dead funny, but if you're in a bad mood and need a good laugh, or just like heartwarming comedies, then this is the movie for you. On top of the chuckles, Cheer Dad is a film that I can relate to. I understand how Patrick feels trying to balance his daughter, job, marriage, and coaching responsibilities. You can't have it all, and even if you can have a lot, it's still hard work. I can also relate to Anna. Moving, starting over in a new place, making new friends, and finding a new passion-I can definitely relate to her. Watching this film feels very realistic; it's as if I'm on the cheer squad watching all of this unfold. This movie also gives me a sense of nostalgia; as if I had lived through some of the events. My favorite part is when Patrick is eating cookies that the cheer moms refuse. I like this part because it reminds me of me.

The film's message is to not give up on finding your passion and never stop trying to achieve your goals even if the going gets tough.

I give Cheer Dad 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on digital platforms on June 16, 2026.

By IvyJoy C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 13

Cheer Dad is the family comedy movie I didn't know I needed! The music instantly made me intrigued; the acting is amazing, and all the jokes land perfectly.

Based on the book, Dad in a Cheer Boy by Patrick Riccards, Cheer Dad follows a devoted father named Patrick (Tim Perez-Ross) who is trying to support his daughter Anna (Joey Victoria Lezama) in finding what she likes to do. When she finds her interest in cheer, her father steps out of his comfort zone and becomes cheer coach of her team to help support her dreams.

As soon as the movie starts, the music sets the vibe of optimism. It is clear and easy to hear and matches each scene perfectly. The music doesn't just stand out in the beginning; it stays consistent the whole time. Additionally, the acting is fantastic, especially by Anna and her dad Patrick. Their connection throughout the movie feels very real. The music and acting work together and make each scene look great for the audience. For example, during the curling party after her cheer competition, the music is happy and exciting, and the actors bring that same energy to screen. I have to give praise to the screenwriter, Joyce Licorish, who is also the director and producer, because the dialogue is very realistic and funny. I can also see the character arch clearly in the dad when he changes from everyday father, to grumpy coach, to a successful leader. Altogether, the acting, music, and dialogue create a hilarious yet realistic movie.

The film's message is that anything can be accomplished with enough support and determination. Anna never gives up, and the results show in the end.

I give Cheer Dad 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It releases on VOD and streaming on June 16, 2026.

The storyline follows Nate Wilcox (Nate Bargatze), a devoted father who has to quickly learn to manage the household on his own. Meanwhile, his wife Katie (Mandy Moore) goes on a business trip after landing a deal on Shark Tank. Nate, struggling at first, learns to handle his girls Sam (Charlotte Ann Tucker), Hadley (Birdie Borria), and Gracie (Stella Grace Fitzgerald). An unorganized person, he doesn't follow calendars, or planners. He does it his own way, calling it the "Dad Era."

I really like that there are a lot of kids in this film. This stood out to me as I watched the movie, and it made me pay more attention to the storyline and be more interested in it. All the actors are really great and believable. My favorite part is when the horse, Cinnamon (Ace), destroys the house and runs away, right before Katie's big interview. After reaching out to a friend, Nate and the girls try their best to make his house look like theirs. It's a tough situation they have been put in, and they almost pull it off. I like how, at the end of the movie, Nate realizes that spending time with family is important, even though they don't have a house. That stood out to me the most. Seeing how this family is brought together, it reminded me how family can be brought together over tough challenges and decisions and how even the silliest things can make you smile. Nate Bargatze portrays Nate Wilcox so well; audiences will be wanting more.

The film's message is about spending time with your family because it is the most important thing, and just a little family time is all you need.

I give The Breadwinner 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 29, 2026.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu finishes the storylines of the Mandalorian, Din-Djarin, and his Jedi turned apprentice turned adopted son, Din-Grogu. They are now working as independent contractors for the New Republic, when they are assigned a dangerous task for the siblings of Jabba the Hutt. This leads to a chaotic arena fight scene, a weaponless, underground fight in a lake with a giant snake, and so much more.

The story has amazing details throughout, most of which are involved with Grogu growing into his own man... or whatever species he is. There are many scenes in which we can see him almost becoming a smaller version of Yoda - from him meditating in the forest or walking with a cane to his next level capabilities with the force. We also see the smaller, but still valuable, detail of the title page starting with "The Mandalorian," then after a short pause bringing in "and Grogu." This goes to show that, up until now, Grogu has always been living in the Mandalorian's shadow, getting his fights fought for him. This is his moment to break out and show that he's not just "the child." Mando makes this passing of the baton clear when he says, "The old protect the young, and then the young protect the old." As Mando spent all of the Mandalorian TV series protecting Grogu, now it's time for Grogu to return the favor. The film has many hilarious moments, from Grogu repeatedly ramming a limp body into a hole that is not big enough, making an echoing clang sound each time, to the hilarious Anzellan dialogue scenes, with funny sounds of mixing English with Anzellan. Like most films in the Star Wars universe, the sets are truly spectacular. The designs made me feel like I was exploring a galaxy far, far away. From simple sets like the Mandalorian's house, to the more complicated one of the Jabba Twins Tree base, all of the sets look truly natural and fun.

The film's main message is that you need to grow up and be your own person someday. It includes themes of family, togetherness, and coming of age (even at age 50). Parents should be aware that it includes some fighting and non-bloody violence, but also has many good role models and aspirational figures. For example, Din-Djarin says to Rotta the Hutt (Jeremey Allan White), "Fighting's not a sport, it's a last resort."

I give Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 22, 2026. Make sure to check it out in IMAX for the full experience.

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the movie Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu! It captures the excitement and emotion that makes the Star Wars franchise so special and important to people. The film blends action, adventure, and heartfelt moments white continuing the story of Star Wars.

The storyline follows Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), also known as The Mandalorian, a bounty hunter who protects the galaxy with his friend, Grogu. They travel across the stars after being given a seemingly impossible task. Din must continue protecting Grogu while becoming involved in conflicts that could affect the future of the galaxy. The film introduces new allies and rivals while still focusing on the emotional bond between the two main characters.

I particularly enjoyed the acting in this film. Pedro Pascal provides an incredible performance as Din Djarin, or the Mandalorian, bringing emotion and depth to the character even behind his helmet. Even though he is often hidden behind a helmet, he is able to express intense emotions through his voice and body language. Pascal gives Djarin a strength that he carries with himself, feeling heroic and realistic. He captures the protectiveness that the Mandalorian has for Grogu while also having loneliness about himself. Another actor who caught my eye is Jeremy Allen White, who plays Rotta the Hutt, the nephew of the evil Hutt empire rulers. He brings a new idea to the Hutt family, showing how they are not all set out to conquer the world. He layers his performance with emotions and vulnerability. Rotta is unpredictable and commands the attention of the audience throughout scenes. White brings a new fresh perspective on a previously established family and kinetic energy to Rotta that makes his scenes intense and memorable.

The film's message is that family is not determined solely by blood. Grogu sticks by The Mandalorian's side, as the latter protects the former. Rotta the Hutt strays from familial traditions, finding a new home with different people. Protecting the people you care about is one of the greatest responsibilities that one can have, and also one of the best.

I give Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu releases in theatres and IMAX on May 22, 2026.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu is an extremely entertaining story with amazing acting, CGI, and music. Every part of the film works perfectly to create a fun and breathtaking movie. It is never boring and it easy to get immersed in the story.

The storyline follows a bounty hunter, The Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal), and Grogu (David Acord) as, against their own morals; they are forced to help the Hut family find their kidnapped nephew, Rotta the Hut (Jeremy Allen White), in an attempt to find a new elusive target. However, they soon discover more secrets as they search for Rotta, encountering much more than they set out for.

The CGI in this movie is phenomenal; everything looks so realistic and adds a lot of suspense and sadness. It's easy to forget that the CGI creatures aren't actually there; making it easy to become immersed in the worlds the Mandalorian and Grogu visit. Rotta the Hut is extremely impressive and moves fluidly throughout the film. This is helped by the outstanding cast; everyone shows extreme talent but especially Pedro Pascal as The Mandalorian. He's tasked with interacting with the CGI creatures, yet, thanks to his acting, it seems like he's truly there with them. Another aspect of the film I really enjoyed is the sets -- they are all unbelievably beautiful and unique. Every location has its own style, leading to each being memorable in its own way. The sets are so stunning, especially when they're shown flying through the Outer Rim -- it looks gorgeous. The film is also incredibly funny - there were multiple times when I laughed out loud. Every joke lands perfectly, both physical and verbal, thanks to the cast and the writers. I especially like Grogu -- his physical comedy always got me to laugh. Another aspect of the film that I especially love is the music; it is gorgeous and enhances the tone of the various scenes. On the other hand, when the film is hopeful or the characters are winning a fight it's very upbeat and adds to the feeling of relief. I found myself entertained the entire way through the film and even got invested in characters such as Rotta, and I wanted the best for them thanks to every aspect of the film.

The message of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu is to take care of those around you, as you'll never know how they'll end up without you. Be forewarned that there is a lot of intense action, violence, and small amounts of gore.

I give Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu 5 out of 5 stars and recommend for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 22, 2026.

The plot follows George (Hugh Jackman) whose favorite pastime is reading murder mysteries to his beloved sheep. After sending several mysterious letters, George is found dead in his pasture. Just like the novels he has read them; the flock discovers this is indeed a murder. The self-proclaimed detective, Tim Derry (Nicholas Braun) is completely useless along with his unlikely friend, Elliot Mathews (Nicholas Galitzine) who is even less helpful. So, it's up to the flock to solve the murder before the contents of his will are followed through.

The best thing about The Sheep Detectives is the utter simplicity of the movie. Sometimes films are trying way too hard to cater to a younger audience. They try to be relatable, and it seems that most of the budget is spent on celebrity cameos instead of good screenwriting. This movie completely shatters that pattern. Where to even begin? Each character's development makes complete sense. Lily (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) is the leader of the sheep. She is confident but some of her values are misplaced. She often grapples with the fact that death exists and how heavy grief can feel. During the course of the film, she embraces community and learns to work through it with people she loves and trusts. Mopple (Chris O'Dowd) is my personal favorite character. The other sheep have the power to forget any event - every other sheep except for him. Chris O'Dowd excels at capturing Mopple's pain. He must carry all the painful memories that the rest of the flock chooses to forget because he cannot. O'Dowd adds some much-needed humor with this development, but he also adds just enough of the tragedy. Aside from the heartfelt moments in the movie, there is still a mystery.

I did feel that the movie sometimes focuses too much on ways to make me cry rather than the mystery itself. The main suspects quickly become the people named in George's will. But not enough time is spent getting to know the other characters so we have no reason to suspect them or not. Because of that, when the mystery is solved, the culprit's motive makes sense, but it is not as satisfying as it could have been. This is just a small thing, and it did not stop me from enjoying the film. This movie is an emotional rollercoaster; it is guaranteed to make anyone who watches it laugh, cry and fall in love with CGI sheep.

The film has themes of belonging, family and the importance of treating others with respect. It also explores grief, loss, and coping strategies. The sheep often choose to forget when something gets too difficult or hurts too much. By the end, Lily and Mopple realize that forgetting is not healthy and it's important to feel negative emotions, not just hide from them.

I give The Sheep Detectives 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to kids ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters May 8, 2026.

By Zoey F, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

I love this film! The Sheep Detectives is a heartwarming murder mystery that keeps you guessing "who did it" right up to the end. I found myself laughing and crying! The storyline is intriguing and the characters act very suspicious, making it so much more interesting to watch.

The Sheep Detectives is based on the book Three Bags Full: A Sheep Detective Story by Leonie Swann. It takes place in a fictional village, called Derrybrook, in England, and focuses on the lives of a herd of sheep, their shepherd (Hugh Jackman), and a few of the villagers. Two of the sheep Lily (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and Mopple (Chris O'Dowd) help the local policeman (Nicolas Braun) solve a murder.

The storyline is well developed and I enjoy the pace of the film. I especially love the humor that is used from beginning to end and the use of a riddle to help solve the murder. I like that the sheep and human characters have similar storylines. Each has to deal with death, different personalities, challenges, and love. The film explores what makes individuals unique and how coming together as a community is rewarding. The voice actors for the sheep create characters that are easily relatable and complex. I love how they bring the sheep to life with sheep-like characteristics and well developed personalities. The human characters also have relatable personalities and demonstrate love, jealousy, ambition, and greed. The sheep and humans go through several experiences that make their characters grow and become more mature. My favorite part is learning the back story behind the independent and protective sheep named Sebastian (Bryan Cranston). This was my favorite part because I like how the events he experienced in his past helped shape how he interacts with the herd.

The film's message is that as long as we remember those we love, they are never truly gone. It also reminds us to be willing to accept help from unexpected places and how important it is to be kind and accepting of those who are different. Be aware that there are some alcohol references, mild violence between animals, and death.

I give The Sheep Detectives 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The Sheep Detectives releases in theaters on May 8, 2026.

By Julie O. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I really loved watching The Sheep Detectives! This is a humorous, but profound murder mystery that is very heartfelt.

The storyline follows a flock of sheep who attempt to uncover the murder of their shepherd (Hugh Jackman) after he unexpectedly dies. The sheep find ways to communicate to the police officer (Nicholas Braun) every time they find a clue, which made me laugh because the way they show the humans is very funny.

The movie is paced well and the plot develops with precision. I really love the animation of the sheep especially that of the lamb, which made me want a baby lamb because they are so cute. The actors' performances are very well executed; each actor skillfully plays their part. My favorite character is Sebastian, voiced by Bryan Cranston, because he goes through so much and has so much knowledge and, even though it doesn't seem like he cares for his friends, he would do anything for them. My favorite part is when the two main sheep, Lily (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and Mopple (Chris O'Dowd) attempt to cross the street for the first time, while being led by Sebastian (Bryan Cranston) , a more experienced sheep. This scene is so funny because Sebastian easily crosses the street while Lily and Mopple have a hard time even touching the concrete.

The film's message is that you cannot judge a book by its cover. Be forewarned that there are death related topics discussed.

I give The Sheep Detectives 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters May 8, 2026.

The story follows a woodland creature, Ollie (Michael B. Jordan), who attempts to befriend a beautiful and colorful bird, Ivy (Juno Temple). As a kind gesture, he offers her some of the food that he and his family enjoy. Soon after, his father shares that the food source is running low and that they will not likely survive. Ollie and Ivy swap bodies, and they begin an adventure that helps them uncover secrets of the forest and bring the animals together.

I love the storyline and message of Swapped. In the village, each of the animals is isolated and congregates in separate groups. However, as Ollie and Ivy navigate their quest to find a way to return to their bodies, they learn that they need each other. While these creatures would likely have conflict in the real world, together they uncover and demonstrate that they are stronger together. There is an emphasis on the importance of not judging a character by the type of animal it is, but instead taking a moment to "walk in their shoes" and learn about who they are. In addition to the talented actors who play the main characters, Tracy Morgan plays Boogle, a seemingly endearing and kind fish who initially befriends Ollie and Ivy and gains their trust. Tracy Morgan is extremely versatile as he transitions from a playful fish to a more sinister role. I especially appreciate the honest dialogue when Ivy pointedly asks Ollie whether he does not trust her, and because of earlier events, he admits that he does not. I like how the characters experience opportunities to grow and develop.

The film's message is to avoid rushing to judge and to consider partnering with others instead of allowing biases or past experiences to shape future relationships. Throughout the story, there is some mild violence, including a few chase scenes that could potentially be upsetting to younger children.

I give Swapped 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Swapped is available for streaming on Netflix beginning May 1, 2026.

By Drake G., KIDS First Film Critic, age 13

Whoa, Swapped is super weird in the BEST way possible--I love it! I seriously didn't expect to like it this much, but the animal body-swapping makes everything totally chaotic and hilarious. It's hysterical because the characters act so ridiculously in each other's bodies, and the animation looks awesome the whole time. It even has some emotional parts that kind of snuck up on me. Swapped is wild, funny, and actually has some heart.

Swapped is about a tiny woodland creature named Ollie (Michael B. Jordan), who is a Pookoo, and a majestic bird named Ivy (Juno Temple), who is a Javan, and they accidentally switch bodies. The problem is...they're basically enemies. Now they have to survive in the valley while stuck in each other's bodies. As they try to switch back, they go on a crazy adventure and start to understand each other.

The animation is, honestly, so cool--it's super colorful and looks almost like a nature documentary, but it's way more exciting and exotic. The characters are really beautiful too. Even though they're mystical creatures like Pookoos and Javans, they have so much detail that they feel real. The funniest part is how Ollie and Ivy still act like themselves after switching bodies--so, watching them struggle is hilarious. Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple make the perfect voices for these two characters. The valley has awesome settings like sky, water, and even some intense fire scenes. There's also a fish named Boogle (Tracy Morgan), who adds mystery and humor, and you will just have to watch the film to understand him. My favorite part is when Ollie tries flying for the first time--it's a total mess but also kind of inspiring.

The film's message is about understanding others and not judging too quickly. It shows that even enemies can learn from each other. It's positive without feeling preachy and it makes you want to be kinder. There are a few intense moments and risky situations, but nothing too scary. Swapped hits all of the emotions while leaving you on the edge of your seat.

I give Swapped 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. You can watch Swapped on Netflix starting May 1, 2026.

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love Swapped. It is wonderful from every angle, but what stands out to me the most is the fantastic voice acting, the terrific animation, the entrancing storyline, and the amazing morals.

This story follows a woodland creature named Ollie (Michael B. Jordan) who blames himself for his civilization's downfall, and a bird named Ivy (Juno Temple) who is seen as annoying and controlling, when she's just trying to be a good big sister. When a freak accident happens forcing them to walk in each other's shoes, they must find a magical bud to return to their homes. As they embark on a journey through "The Valley," they make new friends like Boogle, a large fish (Cedric The Entertainer), and new enemies like the fire wolf (Cedric The Entertainer), the main antagonist of the film.

This film is amazing. The voice acting is terrific -- Michael B. Jordan captures the emotions and complexities of his character wonderfully; it almost feels as if he's truly just a small creature trying to right his wrongs. Juno Temple expertly portrays a big sister trying to do right. And Cedric The Entertainer perfectly voices both of his roles, sounding like an innocent fish looking for a friend, and then capturing the cruelty of the fire wolf. The animation is fantastic. I watched in complete awe of the bright colors and abstract art style. Thom Roberts, the lead animator of this film, pours his soul into its animation. The entire animation department has really made a masterpiece with this movie. The storyline had me looping; I was excited, scared, happy and even cried. The script is awesome with twists and turns that had me spinning. I would think I knew what was going to happen, but it turned out I had no idea. The morals of the story are amazing -- they really stick with me, and I believe they'll resonate with others as well. My favorite part is when all the animals come together. This part gave me a deep sense of hope that one day humanity will join hands like that.

The film's message is that sometimes we must put aside our differences for the greater good, and it also reminds us that together we can get past any obstacle.

I give Swapped 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can find it on Netflix beginning May 1, 2026.

Michael has notable sets that help the film come to life in front of a viewer's eyes. One of the most notable filming locations is the California street where the original Thriller music video was filmed; it is also where the music video for the film was shot. The Hayvenhurst Estate is used as the second home Michael lived in throughout the duration of the film. It is where Michael Jackson actually lived during his teen years. He also practiced some of his most famous dances at this location. My favorite scene is when Michael tells John Branca (Miles Teller) that he chooses him to look after his career. His first task was to fire Joseph as his personal manager. Branca asks why and Michael says, "quickly." It's interesting that Branca decides to fax Joseph to inform him that he is fired. My favorite character is Michael's mom, Katherine Jackson (Nia Long) because she supports him in whatever he does, while his father only supports Michael if he follows his plan. Katherine evens out the scale of the Jackson family dynamics.

The film's message is about the choices your family wants for you and what you want for yourself. The film shows what an impact people in a young child's life leave on them. It also shows how Michael had a family who understands him for who he is and not for being a big star. He has to give part of that understanding up to choose his own life path. Please note that there are some abusive scenes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

I give Michael 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Michael releases in theaters on April 24, 2026.

By Harper B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I am completely won over by Michael, a film that feels like being in the front row of one of Michael Jackson's concerts!

The story follows Michael Jackson's (Jaafar Jackson) musical career from 1960 with The Jackson Five to his 1987 release of "BAD." The film shows how Jackson has a hard time being himself because his dad, Joe Jackson (Colman Domingo), was so strict and in charge of everything. Sometimes, Michael doesn't feel like he fits in, so he uses books and animals to create Neverland, an imaginative place where he can just be happy and have fun. It also shows how Michael breaks big barriers throughout his career so more people can be seen and heard in the music industry. One intense scene is when his hair catches on fire during the 1983 Pepsi commercial accident, but then, Michael realizes he gets a second chance to keep doing what he loves.

It's amazing how Michael Jackson's talent is something everyone can enjoy. Some of my favorite parts of this film are when Michael adopts exotic animals and visits sick kids in hospitals because it shows how kind and gentle he is. He even has a giraffe and a llama at his home. It is also super cool that a real member of Michael's family, Jaafar Jackson, who is Jermaine Jackson's son, plays Michael in the film. His classic Michael Jackson dance moves like The Moonwalk and "Thriller" zombie dance are spectacular! All of Michael's iconic clothing such as his red leather "Beat It" jacket, rhinestone covered glove and penny loafers are highlighted. The realistic concert lighting is attention grabbing and the BOOMING sound is a fun special effect that makes everyone in the theater dance in their seats. My favorite scene is when the head of CBS (Mike Myers) calls MTV and basically demands MTV play Michael's videos, demonstrating how big and important he was becoming.

This film's message is about finding your own voice and following your heart to reach your dreams. Be true to yourself and never give up no matter what. Note that there are some mature scenes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Michael gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters on April 24, 2026.

By Ryker N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

We have all heard of Michael Jackson. We know him for hits like "Billie Jean" and "Thriller," and we love him for how he impacted music and the world... but with such greatness comes a story, a story which is perfectly shown in the film, Michael. This already record-breaking film is made for viewers and Moonwalkers to sing along, cry, laugh, and connect with Michael on a whole new level.

Michael takes us on a journey through Michael Jackson's (Jaafar Jackson) life and career, starting as a child singing at clubs, and ultimately performing solo in huge stadiums filled with thousands of people. The story begins in the 60s, when young Michael (Juliano Valdi) and his brothers start their music careers with their father, Joseph Jackson (Coleman Domingo) and their mom, Katherine Jackson (Nia Long) managing them. It explores the depths of the fame that Michael experienced and the way he handled his personal life, as we watch him develop through the 60s, 70s and 80s, eventually becoming the solo artist we remember and loved, even today.

This is a film I would love to see again. The focus of the film is primarily on Michael Jackson and his family - his brothers in the Jackson Five, his parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, John Branca (Miles Teller), and a few other important figures. The movie completely captured my attention from the very beginning, with the music, the lights, and the framing of every scene to give us an inside look at Jackson's personal life. Jaafar Jackson certainly brings a special take to his uncle's life. There have been lots of amazing impersonators of Michael Jackson, but Jaafar really nails the voice, personality, and truth behind who Michael was. Sometimes, when watching the screen and hearing the songs, I forget that it's not Michael. The film allowed me to look at Jackson's life differently as well. Getting a more in-depth look into his childhood with his father's values, his animal companionship, the loneliness he sometimes had to deal with, and the fear he grew up with really helped me understand him more. Michael said it when he was alive - that he truly didn't have much of a childhood. Watching the young version of him in the film definitely strikes an emotion, and made me connect with him as a child, and then an adult. I love the storytelling so much because it's drawn so heavily from his friends and family, making it more personal than what we have taken in from the media over the years. While I didn't really learn anything new, this movie opened my eyes to know more about who Michael Jackson truly was.

This film delivers so many amazing messages, from being true to yourself to not letting others' wants or opinions determine how you live. The message that stood out the most to me was after the Pepsi performance, where Michael's hair caught fire. It made Michael realize that life is really something that we have to enjoy and make our own, because so many things can go wrong and you might never know what that end-moment could be or if you'll get a second chance. It's a reminder to stay true to yourself and live the life you want - do what makes you feel happy. Be aware that there are some intense moments between Michael's dad, Joe and himself.

I give Michael 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in theaters now so check it out.

The storyline follows Lorcan (Ely Solan), a teenage minotaur who is experiencing problems growing up. These problems consist of lashing out and being hypnotized into a trance. And, no matter what, Lorcan and his little brother Charlie (Billy Jenkins) decide that they're going on an adventure. The goals of this adventure is to figure out what's occurring with the island, defeat the rival enemies, Wesley (Michael Sheen) and Wesley Jr. (Elliot Grihault), and identify what's bothering Lorcan. In addition, Lorcan is trying to find his long lost, believed to be deceased, minotaur parents.

Lorcan and the island are experiencing problems from a shapeshifting mythical creature to the uncovered ruins that turn out to be a labyrinth. It's up to Lorcan, Charlie, Harper (Luciana Akpobaro), and Dana (Billie Boullet), to uncover the island's secrets, history, and Lorcan's destiny. This series speaks to young teenagers by not being too colorful. Many animated series suffer from having too much happening on the screen, but this one focuses on making jokes at the right time and playing it safe with the artwork. Sometimes that's exactly what a show needs to go from great to remarkable. The art and animation are what carries this series beyond mediocrity. There are so many times where the viewer can pause an episode and appreciate the calm and grounded style of the artwork. I love how Charlie's character is designed - his youthful innocence paired with his detective skills made me smile. The way he loves his brother is so heartwarming. Additionally, Dana and Harper have great chemistry and this ultimately helps Lorcan and Charlie more than they realize.

The show's lesson is that growing up can be very challenging and letting others help us isn't a death wish. In life sometimes being a real adult is realizing that teamwork makes the dreamwork.

I give My Brother The Minotaur 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It is available on Apple TV+ beginning April 24, 2026. So go check it now!

The Devil Wears Prada 2 reintroduces us to the loveable Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), who is now 20 years older and has grown into herself as a well-respected journalist. But after a mass firing at her company and an even larger scandal at the infamous Runway (the world's most elite fashion magazine), Andy must reunite with her former boss Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) in order to save both her own job and Runway's future.

Sequels always make me slightly apprehensive. All too often they either try too hard to recreate the magic of the first film, or completely ignore its predecessor and fall flat for eager audiences. The Devil Wears Prada 2, however, did neither of these. Instead, it creates a refreshing storyline by adding themes that resonate with today's audience. The age of media, doom scrolling, and clicking-over-reading are central to its plot, which keeps it realistic to today's world. Additionally, its commitment to not just recreating, but rather reimagining its high-fashion visuals are phenomenal. There are many montages that show how today's fashion has developed from that of 2006. The styling, color palates, and silhouettes are all unique from its predecessor but accurate to real fashion trends of today, which kept me engaged and enthralled.

This film illustrates the importance of the delicate balance between preserving the past and integrating the future. It reminds us that, while tradition is important, so is opening our arms to what is to come, lest we be swept away by the past. Note that this film does have some profanity.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in cinemas May 1, 2026.

By Adele N, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The Devil Wears Prada 2 not only lives up to the original, it surpasses it. The plot, the stakes, the drama, and the statement outfits have all gone up by 110% in the latest film.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 follows Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) as she loses her job at a newspaper due to budget cuts. After an impassioned speech at an award ceremony and a tip from someone special, Andy is offered the position of Senior Feature Editor by the owner of Runway. He brings her in to save the magazine from losing its credibility after a scandal from their coverage of a fast fashion company, and she's reunited with the creative power behind Runway Magazine: Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) and Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci).

If I had to take only one thing away from The Devil Wears Prada 2, it would be the message. The film really excels in addressing relevant issues of the modern-day fashion industry and journalism in general - specifically, how artistic industries lose their meaning and purpose when they have to appeal to owners to stay profitable, and to mass consumers of short-form content to stay relevant. The film has so much to say about that and weaves it into the story, creating a movie where actions speak louder than words. The film achieves this with artistic cinematography. The movie doesn't just show you what's going on, it uses its visuals to tell the story - every plant, painting, light fixture and, especially outfits, set the mood and hint about what is going to happen. It's subtle, and it ties the film together nicely. However, what really makes the film special is the character Andy. In her new position, she is really in her element. While I love this film, I feel the romantic subplot is underdeveloped and rushed, and there are a few situations that simply aren't believable. Other than that, I had an absolute blast!

The film's message is that you shouldn't lose yourself just to please others. Note that there is some mild profanity, death references and questionable business practices.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Devil Wears Prada 2 releases in theatres on May 1, 2026.

By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is the sequel we didn't know we needed. I thoroughly enjoyed this film with its witty dialogue, lighthearted energy, and return of iconic characters. It's a great way to catch up on what our favorite fashionistas are up to today.

Twenty years after she left Runway, Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) is now the successful and award-wining journalist she always hoped to be. But after her company's budget is cut and her whole team is let go, she finds herself back where she started: working for Runway with the devil herself, Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), but now as the features editor. With scandals and unexpected changes to Runway, can she save the future of the magazine?

This sequel may not have been necessary, but is it worth the watch? Absolutely. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is shockingly funny - honestly, even funnier than the first. I was laughing out loud the entire time, whether it was from the references to the first film or the perfectly timed one-liners. Speaking of references, I recommend re-watching the first film before seeing this one so you can pick up on subtle Easter eggs you might miss if you blink (keep an eye out for any blue belts or cerulean sweaters in the background). There are also a ton of unexpected cameos from famous actors, athletes, influencers and singers to anticipate. Along with these cameos, the whole gang is back together, and it's so enjoyable to see their group dynamics and witness their interactions. We've got Andy (Anne Hathaway), Emily (Emily Blunt), Nigel (Stanley Tucci) and Miranda (Meryl Streep) working together and against each other, again. It's so wholesome seeing how some of the characters have changed: Andy now has her confidence, Emily has a new leadership role at a different company; Nigel has more command, albeit behind the scenes, and Miranda has calmed down just a bit. It's also interesting how Runway has evolved over the last two decades, from being a print magazine to becoming entirely digital. I congratulate the screenwriters for adapting these characters and the business to modern times, really connecting the audience immediately to the cast despite how long it's been since the first film's release.

The film reminds us to have ambition and resilience; to fight to achieve your dreams; and care for the people around you even if it's unreciprocated.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults of course. It comes out in theaters on May 1, 2026. Check it out!

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 18

The Devil Wears Prada 2 surprised me with how much I enjoyed watching the movie. It is a fashion feast for the eyes! I love how the storyline is fresh and new compared to the original and I liked seeing how each character has developed over the years.

Anne Hathaway returns as Andy Sachs, the young woman who left the fashion world for a career in journalism. After twenty years, she is reunited with Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) and Nigel (Stanley Tucci) who are still leading the fashion world at Runway and Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt) who is now at Dior. The fashion world is striving to remain relevant in a world rapidly changing with online content and AI.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 has a powerful storyline about how different business industries like fashion and journalism try to stay relevant and have to adjust to the changing needs of the world. Fashion is still the main aspect of the movie and the costumes are absolutely gorgeous. It is a lot more body positive than the first film and it is really funny when Miranda tries to make unacceptable comments and her assistant tries to stop her. I love when it features montages of everyone's outfits while they are in Italy. The storyline has a lot of suspense and conflict. Each of the actors brings life to the characters, making it really easy for viewers to become invested emotionally when things are difficult and wanting to celebrate with them when things go well. My favorite part is when Nigel gives his speech. I love this part because he has worked so hard for his recognition as a major contributor to Runway. The actors also bring a lot of humor to their characters, which makes the film really enjoyable to watch and each character is easy to relate to.

I love that the same messages from the first film remain true in this one. First of all, hard work, perseverance, and patience are valued traits. Also, the themes of being true to yourself and the value of friendship are still important. I like that the sequel also emphasizes how important it is to remain flexible and open to new opportunities in our fast-paced world. Parents should be advised there are some alcohol references and profanity.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Devil Wears Prada 2 releases in theaters on May 1, 2026.

You, Me & Tuscany follows Anna (Halle Bailey), a young woman who feels stuck in life after giving up her dream to become a chef. When an unexpected opportunity brings her to a villa in Italy, she impulsively travels to Tuscany in hopes to raise her spirits. There, she meets Michael (Reg� Jean Page), and the two quickly find themselves drawn together. However, she has a complicated relationship intertwined in a lie that is blocking her path.

One performance that stands out to me is Halle Bailey, who plays the role of Anna, the young woman trying to find her way to a happy life. Bailey uses so much heart and emotion to truly connect with her character and the audience. She perfectly captures Anna's uncertainty, hope, and determination, and uses her expressions and delivery to create a genuine feeling, especially in the scenes where she questions her choices and her future. Bailey brings a softness and sincerity to Anna, allowing for the audience to find themselves in her. Another performance that impressed me is Reg� Jean Page, who plays Michael. He brings a calmness and confidence to his character, drawing the audience in. His character, Michael, is charming and thoughtful, which counter-balances Anna's crazy, lost feeling. Page brings a deeper meaning to the romantic moments in the film, creating a chemistry between him and Bailey that is authentic and heartfelt.

The film's message is that sometimes, life's unexpected turns can lead you to exactly where you need to be. The film shows that growth comes from taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone.

I give You, Me & Tuscany 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You, Me & Tuscany releases in theatres on April 10, 2026.

By Juliana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

If you want to embark on an indulgent Italian vacation from the comfort of your home, look no further than You, Me & Tuscany. This delightful film is full of heart, charming comedy and plenty of delicious food-so get ready to go on the journey of a lifetime!

You, Me & Tuscany follows Anna (Halle Bailey), an aspiring chef determined to step back into her life after a year of avoiding it due to the death of her mother. On a whim-and despite the warning of her best friend Claire (Aziza Scott)-Anna follows a handsome stranger, Matteo (Lorenzo de Moor) all the way to Tuscany, Italy, but her plan quickly unravels when his family finds her staying in their empty villa and becomes convinced that she and Matteo are engaged to be married. Tempted by the prospect of once again belonging to a loving family, Anna plays along...until Matteo's cousin Michael (Reg�-Jean Page) enters the picture, capturing her heart and threatening to topple the new life Anna has built for herself.

This film offers a perfect balance of laughter and drama, achieved largely through the actors' performances. Despite the fact that the events taking place are highly absurd--people climbing out windows and falling off the sides of villas, inviting themselves to stay in strangers' homes, committing all kinds of hilarious atrocities that would never fly in real life-the actors are incredibly grounded and complex, displaying true, layered emotions ranging from pain to elation, surprise to incredulousness. Paired with beautiful scenery and authentic Tuscan delicacies (no props are used; even the food shown is real!), they paint a picture that made me want to pack my bags, fly to Italy and take part in their elaborate illusion. The characters each has a unique factor that drew me in; Michael's, in his allure; Anna's, in her undying optimism; even Claire's in her persistent offering of opinions, no matter how many times her advice is ignored. Older viewers will also appreciate the film's many references to other beloved movies like Under the Tuscan Sun.

This film is a testament to spontaneity. Sometimes, you need to send your brain on vacation and follow your heart, because it will take you places you couldn't have imagined. The most interesting journeys take place when we put aside practicality, jump in headfirst and chase those dreams as fast as we can! The film is also a reminder not to take small things for granted, especially our families. As bothersome as they can sometimes be, not everyone is fortunate enough to have one, and at the end of the day, their love and support will carry us through life's twists and turns. Note that the film contains swearing, drinking and mild sexual references.

I give You, Me & Tuscany 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The movie releases to theaters April 10, 2026.

This visually striking film follows Hamlet (Riz Ahmed) who is returning home after the unexpected death of his father, and finds that his mother, Queen Gertrude (Sheeba Chaddha), is preparing to marry his uncle Claudius (Art Malik). While struggling with his grief, Hamlet meets the ghost of his father, who reveals that his death wasn't actually an accident, but he was murdered by Claudius. As he tries to discover the truth, he starts questioning who he can trust, and he begins to plot his revenge.

I highly recommend this film! The classic story is reimagined within a South Asian family living in modern-day London, which makes it feel fresh and culturally resonant. Every scene feels alive, with engaging performances that make it impossible to look away for even a second. Riz Ahmed is the perfect actor to play Hamlet, as he has the ability to portray the character's complexity. He shows both his grief after losing his father and his suspicion and growing revenge against Claudius in an impactful way through his subtle body language and chilling dialogue delivery. Additionally, Sheeba Chaddha's gentle portrayal of Gertrude captures her vulnerability and weakness, so it contrasts nicely with Hamlet's intensity. Art Malik is also well-suited for Claudius, as he brings an authoritative presence on the outside, but extremely tense on the inside, which makes his performance convincing and natural. I especially love how the film incorporates many lines from the original play, like the famous line "To be, or not to be, that is the question" - they are woven beautifully into the story. Even though the film is set in modern times, these classic lines feel natural and meaningful without feeling out of place. The film also captures the business of London at night, using the loud sounds of traffic and the city, which creates a strong contrast with the timeless, poetic tone of Shakespeare's language.

The film's message is that when someone is consumed by grief and betrayal, they can lose control of their thoughts and actions, leading to serious consequences. It's a reminder that if powerful emotions aren't controlled, they can affect not only one person, but everyone around them.

I give Hamlet 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released in theaters on April 10, 2026.

The documentary displays Amy Goodman's fearless qualities, detailing earlier works, such as the freeing of former prisoner, Mooreese Bickham and her news coverage on Indonesia's occupation in East Timor. Having faced arrests at protests, dangerous situations in foreign countries and mixed public sentiments about her work, she remains unwavering. Ultimately, this shapes the momentum of her career, inspiring her to start Democracy Now! which is famed for giving a voice to the voiceless while combating under coverage bias in the media. The show features guests like activist Ken Sara Wewa and prisoner Mumia Abu Jamal. In recent years, she continues to make an unapologetic approach to journalism while remaining consistent with her mission of promoting freedom of the press.

The main guests in the documentary are Amy Goodman, joined by colleagues, Jeremy Scahill, Juan Gonzalez and Sharif Abdel Koudouss. Filmmakers Tia Lessen and Carl Deal, create a coherent documentary, setting the tone for the kind of journalism that Goodman engages in. From the get-go, they make it clear that Goodman is not afraid to ask the hard questions regarding pressing issues, by showing clips of her confronting politicians, soldiers and police. This creates a raw tension, allowing the audience to feel immersed in these high-stakes situations. The use of high-quality archival footage and interview clips are seamlessly woven into the film, adding to its intensity. For example, her heated phone call with former president Bill Clinton, criticism of Shell Oil's exploitation of Oogoni land and inclusion of prison commentaries on her show portray her as one who is not afraid to push the envelope. In addition, the film explores her Jewish roots and Goodman's father who impressed upon her the significance of social justice. However, this could be expanded upon in more detail. The pacing is moderate, and is easier to digest as it moves from one major event to the other. More so, the commentary of her and her colleagues feels balanced, although it falls short of other outside perspectives.

The film urges viewers to understand the significance of independent journalism amidst the struggle to uphold integrity.

The storyline is about the life and artistic journey of Marcel Pagnol (Laurent Lafitte), a young boy who grew up in the south of France and eventually becomes a famous writer and filmmaker. The movie moves between Marcel's life as a child and an adult, and it explores how his childhood memories contribute to his writing. Along the way, the movie introduces the audience to some of the significant events and people in Marcel's life, which contribute to his creativity and passion in his work. The movie explores how Marcel learns to see the world in his unique way and how this leads to his meaningful art.

One of the things that makes this film so captivating is the voice acting. Someone who caught my attention is Laurent Lafitte, who voices the adult version of the main character, Marcel Pagnol. Lafitte truly embodies his character, bringing a sense of reflection and wisdom to Pagnol, especially when he reminisces about his life and youth. His delivery is subtle yet powerful, which allows for the audience to connect with Marcel's inner thoughts. Another person who caught my attention is G�raldine Pailhas, who plays the role of Marcel's mother, Augustine Pagnol. She adds emotional depth through her performance and a sense of understanding to the film, which helps the audience to truly connect with the family. Her character brings warmth and sincerity to the story. This makes the personal, small moments feel genuine and impactful.

The film's message is about appreciating the small moments in life and how important it is to remember them. The film suggests that one's past experiences, even the quiet ones, can shape who people become and inspire something impactful. It also highlights how storytelling can preserve those moments.

I give A Magnificent Life 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. A Magnificent Life releases in theaters on March 27, 2026.

By Juliana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I am a big fan of A Magnificent Life, which chronicles the story of Marcel Pagnol, a decorated French writer, whose story resonates with me because it evokes strong emotions of joy and sadness. What stood out most is how the film showcases moments from Pagnol's early life, specifically when his mother, his biggest supporter, wrote a poem to him from her deathbed, encouraging him to keep writing poetry and nurture his creativity and imagination. Her belief and unconditional love helped shape the successful storyteller he would become.

This animated biographical film follows Marcel Pagnol (Laurent Lafitte), a celebrated writer, playwright and filmmaker in 1950s Paris who is asked to write a memoir for the magazine ELLE. At 61 years old, Marcel struggles to remember important moments from his life until his younger self, Little Marcel (Noa Staes), appears and helps him revisit his childhood in Marseille. Together they relive the memories that shaped his dreams of becoming a writer, even when others doubted him.

I highly recommend this film! The animation is stunning, since it is hand-drawn and there are many intricate details, such as the small ruffles in the rugs and the tiny patterns in the wallpaper of Pagnol's Parisian apartment in the 1950s. Additionally, the clips from the real movies Pagnol made alongside the animated scenes of his life are seamlessly integrated. The story moves smoothly between Marcel's present life and the memories from his past without feeling rushed or confusing. The voice acting brings the characters to life, especially the two Marcels - the older Marcel is extremely thoughtful, and the younger Marcel is curious and energetic. Watching Marcel grow from a curious child in Marseille into a determined storyteller in Paris is inspiring, especially when he chooses to follow his dreams instead of the safer career his father wanted for him. Some moments are funny while others are very touching, which makes the story feel emotional without ever becoming too heavy.

The film's message is about staying true to yourself and doing what you love, which can lead to great things, just like Marcel, who followed his passion for writing stories, plays, and films and eventually became successful.

I give A Magnificent Life 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released in theaters on March 27, 2026.

This insightful film tells the story of Benjamin Franklin (John Paul Sneed) and George Whitefield's (Jonathan Blair) unexpected 30-year-long friendship. It details the up's and down's of both of their lives, how they continuously were intertwined, and the important impact they left on each other. And most significantly, the lasting legacy their trail-blazing approach left on American history when they ignited an awakening of its people.

This film shines in its visual aspects and definitely kept my attention. The lighting is spectacular and made me feel like I was experiencing and seeing history with new eyes. The realistic costumes reflect the late 1700s style accurately. The transitions between scenes are very well put together and are satisfying to watch. The movie really comes to life as the sets look accurate to the time period. When I was watching it, I was completely invested! The cast's performance is truly amazing and definitely makes this movie breathtaking. George Whitfield, played by Jonathan Blair, is one of the most enjoyable to watch. The way he expresses his character's emotions is effortless and very believable. The relationship between Benjamin Franklin and George Whitefield unfolds with care and attention. They go from not knowing each other and being wary of each other to becoming best friends for many years. I love the way we see how they influence each other to be better and make a lasting impact, and how Benjamin Franklin learned from Whitefield and contributed to history in his own way.

The film's message is that if you persevere you can overcome anything life throws at you. Don't let others decide your limits and do what you can to help others despite push back and negative feedback.

I give A Great Awakening 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters April 3, 2026.

With Bowser (Jack Black) now being contained and shrunken comes a new threat: Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie), who is determined to liberate his father and restore their dominance. When they learn that Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson) has been captured in order to power Bowser Jr.'s plans, Mario (Chris Pratt), Luigi (Charlie Day), Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) and their new friend Yoshi (Donald Glover) travel to space to save the universe.

As with the first Super Mario Bros. movie, fans of the franchise and Nintendo in general will enjoy the iconic songs, lovable characters and niche set details. Having played Super Mario Galaxy, the game this movie is based on, I loved seeing the different planets the Super Mario crew travels to, as well as the creative liberties this movie takes with their destinations. One drawback for using the idea of planet-hopping as the plot is that the story feels somewhat rushed. The crew never stays in one place too long and because of this, the audience misses out on the potential for some deeper bonding moments. However, the action-packed fight scenes, iconic Easter Eggs, comedic sequences and beautiful animation make up for this. As expected, Bowser, played by Jack Black, is as funny as ever. Some of my favorite scenes of this movie are his interactions with his son as they make up for lost time. The performances from the rest of the original cast are strong, but I especially like the newer characters. Glen Powell, as Fox McCloud, the aviator fox from an alternate universe, is sure to be a new fan favorite, thanks to his loyalty and courageousness. Donald Glover, although he doesn't have many lines as Yoshi, has such an endearing personality. Something that really stood out to me is the animation because, although the style seems simple and cartoonish, this movie is visually stunning. Not only are the scenes of the galaxy and different planets beautiful, but the animators pay attention to all of the little details - the freckles on Mario's face, the grooves of cardboard, the pills on worn out fabric - and watching this movie on the big screen amplified this.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie highlights the importance and power of family, friendship and working together. Messages about selflessness, growth, and acceptance are also present.

I give The Super Mario Bros. Movie 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Players of any Mario games will particularly enjoy this. It comes out in theaters on April 1, 2026.

The film is led by a young boy, Mohsen (Katherine Clavelo), who frequently finds himself in sticky situations due to his desire to prove himself heroic. One afternoon, Mohsen happens upon Tigy (R�mulo Bernal), the world's last Malayan tiger, who is hiding from a group of greedy, cold-blooded hunters in search of the "Forest Heart" and its promise of immortality. Much to Tigy's dismay, Mohsen follows him into the wilderness, where he discovers a threatened group of animals and embarks on his biggest operation yet: saving their home from destruction.

Certain events in Extinction: Animals Unite! seemed to contradict established facts; for example, Tigy cannot seem to decide whether he wants to stay with Mohsen in the city or return to his home in the jungle. He enjoys himself at times and demands to leave at others, even making the long journey back to Mohsen's house after Mohsen catapults him far away from it-only to beg to be escorted back to the jungle, where he knows that the very hunters he was running from still reside. Towards the end of the film, it is unclear which forest animals support Mohsen's efforts and which believe he is "a traitor." Thankfully, the film's pace slows in its second half, making it less confusing than the hectic first. The animation deserves mention as well; it showcases beautiful artwork of forests, bridges and night skies. And it's impossible not to fall in love with the characters. Mohsen believes in his abilities wholeheartedly, sometimes comically overestimating them, and is so determined to help others that I had to root for him. Even the cantankerous Tigy is amusing in his weariness.

This film reminds us that sometimes, you need to follow your instincts and take the risk. Mohsen doesn't stop to contemplate the infinite what-ifs of his decisions; he dives in and faces his challenges head-on. If you are passionate about something, don't let fear be the loudest voice in the room-even if you don't have a whole jungle cheering you on, believe in yourself, get out there and make it happen!

I give Extinction: Animals Unite! 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. The movie releases on VOD April 3, 2026.

By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 17

To my surprise, Extinction: Animals Unite! has great comedic presence and is a terrific animated film. In just the first scenes, I realized that this film isn't just for kids.

The storyline follows a young boy, Mohsen (Katherine Clavelo), who loves to play hero, but after meeting an endangered Malayan tiger nicknamed Tigy (Romulo Bernal), Mohsen's child-like world turns into a real hero story as he teams up with the other wilderness animals to save Tigy's forest before it is lost forever.

In the beginning of the movie, Mohsen's family is having a picnic when a group of poachers appear, led by Extinguisher Alex (actor) - they are hunting Tigy and other forest animals. Mohsen is able to hide Tigy but bigger issues need to be addressed. We see how Mohsen loves to help, but after multiple attempts of trying to help others fail, Mohsen's help slowly turns to hurt. After involuntarily demolishing his dad's construction project, Mohsen gets his first taste of resent from another person, which there will plenty more of. I have to say, the background music is the unsung hero of this film; not only does music set the tone perfectly, but the music is beautiful all by itself. When Mohsen gives himself a secret identity as Nimble Kid, this is heartwarming, a little humorous, and highlights Mohsen's kid-like personality. I love the characters Mr. Orders (actor) and Ranger Graham (actor). These two unintentionally and intentionally support and help Mohsen on his journey to save the forest. Speaking of the forest, The Heart of the Forest (actor) is my favorite character. Her gracefulness and clarity are unmatched. I also like the ending when Extinguisher Alex turns over a new a leaf.

The film's message is to always offer help, but when denied, move on. Forcing help on someone who doesn't want it is not helping.

I give Extinction: Animals Unite! 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It is available on VOD beginning April 3, 2026. So, keep your eyes open for that!

By Ashton P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Extinction: Animals Unite! uses comedy, action, and strong relationship dynamics to create a heartfelt animated film. This movie is a perfect fit for kids and families who enjoy action films along with a good laugh.

This storyline follows a young boy who possesses superpowers that he uses to save the animals of the forest. He primarily focuses on saving the last member of a tiger species from scary forest hunters who want many species of animals to become extinct. With just one remaining tiger, the hunters spend their efforts on tracking him down throughout the film. The young boy and the tiger must work together along with other animals to save themselves and each other.

Extinction: Animals Unite! has top-notch comedy moments that keep me engaged and entertained. While the story itself is not inherently funny, subtle elements of the dialogue or animation provide laughs in the midst of chaos. Additionally, the relationship dynamics are extremely strong, especially for an animated film. There are a few specific relationships that show ongoing development. The young boy and the tiger's friendship, central to the storyline, is a sweet and heartfelt journey. The relationship between the young boy and his father, which seems strained at first, is both relatable to many viewers and effective in communicating the film's assertion, despite not being a major storyline. Although the character depth and relationship dynamics are strong, the plot as a whole is not exceptionally engaging. Some aspects of the story seem predictable. However, with the cute characters and friendships as well as the consistent action and comedy, viewers are bound to have a positive experience.

The film's message is that working together to help others and forming friendships always benefits us in the end. The young boy begins the film struggling to save every animal all by himself, which proves to be an impossible task. However, once he teams up with the tiger, they not only strengthen their friendship with each other, but they form bonds with other animals in the forest. Once they are cooperating they can effectively protect each other and save countless species from extinction. Be aware that there is some violence, including animated gun shots, explosions, and weapon use.

I give Extinction: Animals Unite! 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can view Extinction: Animals Unite! on video on demand and streaming beginning April 3, 2026.

Waking up alone on a spaceship is a tough way to picture yourself, but for middle school science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), it's reality. With only a vague recollection of his life on Earth, no company, and no apparent way home, he figures he's done for. But as his memories start to return, he remembers his mission: to save Earth from a parasitic species of alien microorganisms that are eating the sun. Though this sounds impossible, he won't be alone for the task. Enter Rocky (James Ortiz), an alien whose solar system has the same deadly infection as Grace's. Working together, these two have a chance to rescue their home worlds, and maybe even the entire universe.

The best way to describe this film is strong. Ryan Gosling is perfectly suited for the role of Ryland Grace, ensuring the importance and gravity of Grace and Rocky's mission is front and center. The directors took a creative and unique approach in creating an alien comrade for Grace, and it pays off. Instead of designing a being that's slightly similar to a human, Rocky is, well... basically a living rock. This adds distinction between our two heroes, and further heightens the principle of learning to work together on a project that can make or break the future, despite their great differences. A unique aspect of Project Hail Mary is that not one green screen was used during production. Instead, it features thousands of VFX shots for special effects, and the entire interior of the Hail Mary ship is built as a practical set! Methods like wire and puppeteer removals are employed, and shots are filmed in front of black backgrounds for space and shifting hues for planets to achieve unique interactive light. The storyline itself is special in the sense that it incorporates Ryland's space journey, while mixing in the events that transpired on Earth that got Grace to where he finds himself now.

This film's message shows us that through friendship, even the hardest problems can be solved. Grace has the impossible task of saving humanity and the universe from a threat that no one has a clue how to defeat. When he and Rocky put their heads together, the solution to their quest is nothing short of extraordinary.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary rockets into theaters on March 20, 2026. Go check it out!

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

Project Hail Mary is a visual spectacle with great characters, a heartwarming theme and a roller coaster of emotions.

Science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years away from earth only to learn that he must save the Earth from a mysterious threat that is killing the sun. He makes an unlikely friendship that might be the key.

This film is based on the book by the same name by Andy Weir. I cannot speak to whether this film is accurate to the book or not but the film definitely works on its own. Project Hail Mary truly had me engaged for its full run time. It's full of suspense, humor and fascinating science. If you're concerned about seeing this film because it's too long, I guarantee you it's not long enough. Ryland Grace is a character who I could relate to, mainly because of his journey in this film. Initially, he is in denial of his purpose but eventually he comes to terms with what he has to do, which is extremely important. Rocky (James Ortiz) is the surprise highlight of this film. I was blown away at how much I could feel and care for a rock and Rocky really takes the film to another level. The mix of puppets and CGI flows seamlessly for his character. However, it's not just the actors' performances that make this film great - it's also having the film take place in space and the fact that we only see two characters for the majority of the film. Those things made me feel as if I was right there with them. When you add the beautiful cinematography that this film has, it exceeds overwhelmingly. I love that this film can be seen by anyone; it's such a well-written, feel-good movie, which is hard to find nowadays. This film hits it out of the park!

The film's message is about companionship and how people and living creatures need someone there with us so we are not alone. The way this theme is conveyed in the film is very heartwarming and touching.

I give Project Hail Mary 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in cinemas on March 20, 2026. Be sure to look for it.

By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Project Hail Mary is so captivating! From its engrossing plot to the beautiful visuals and its lovable cast, I don't have nearly enough words to describe how much I love this film.

The storyline follows Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), a scientist and a school teacher who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of himself and his mission. He figures out that he is the only survivor of a crew sent to the Tui Ceti system to find out how to save Earth from dying. All he can rely on is his knowledge, faith and will. However, he learns he is not alone on this quest.

Project Hail Mary is an unforgettable experience. The acting in this film is amazing. It's impressive how one man can not only keep an audience engaged, but also lead us through a story that makes us laugh, cry and always keeps us on the edge of our seats. Speaking of stories, I love not only the plot but I also appreciate how it's formatted and paced. We start and stay in the present with Grace for the majority of the film. I like how we learn about Grace's past through his flashbacks. Throughout the film, we get little snippets of the events leading up to the launch of the ship and it was a genius. It definitely heightened my curiosity and made the film ten times more interesting. Another thing that captivated me is the visual design - the planets, spaceships, alien life, and overall look of outer space is beautiful. Everything was designed with so much care, and consideration. While on the topic of visuals, this movie was filmed for IMAX and watching it in IMAX heightens the experience. The music also enhances the emotions of the film, thanks to composer Daniel Pemberton. I particularly enjoyed the music in the scenes on the ship and in outer space. This film has so much care put into it that I can't find a single thing wrong with it. I just have to say that I love this film.

The film's message is that teamwork and friendship can do anything. Be aware that the film contains scenes with blood, death, corpses, drinking, and existential dread.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary releases in theaters on March 20, 2026.

The storyline follows a woman who is recently released from prison for killing her boyfriend. She goes in search of her daughter that was taken away from her after birth. She ends up finding her late boyfriend's best friend, and they build a close relationship with each other.

Reminders of Him is based on the book with the same title by Colleen Hoover. The main characters are Kenna (Maika Monroe), Ledger (Tyriq Withers), Grace (Lauren Graham), Scotty (Rudy Pankow) and Diem (Zoe Kosovic). One of my favorite things about this film is how connected I felt with the characters. Knowing their backstory and struggles, but also seeing their interactions with each other, made it easy to get attached to them. That's why when Kenna and her daughter Diem meet, it's especially heartwarming because the audience knows how much it took to get to that point and how much it means to Kenna. I felt complete empathy for all the characters. However, we know very little about Scotty's background, despite the whole film being based on him. The plot is lacking there and he is only shown in a couple of scenes. Even though the plot is very predictable, one scene shocked me even though I knew it was bound to happen. I applaud the directors for that. Books are explicitly detailed and can be difficult to transfer into a movie script, but this screenplay delivers. It makes me want to read the book now. I especially like Scotty and Kenna's flashbacks. The car crash scene is very intense and captivating, even to the point of shaking and heart racing! The setting is mostly in a rural city and the sets look very realistic. My favorite part is hearing the jokes of Kenna's coworker, who is a kid. She's so funny and adds humor and balance to the storyline.

The film's message is that even when life is difficult, it's important to find hope and something to live for. When Kenna feels like she has nothing to live for, she creates new relationships with people and becomes part of her daughter's life, which she didn't think was possible. However, she never gives up and continues to persevere. Be aware that there are some scenes with bloody images, personal intimacy, and mild profanity.

I give Reminders of Him 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Reminders of Him releases in theaters March 13, 2026.

The story centers on two families competing to get their kids into the top preschool in the area, with only one spot remaining. Alan Williams (Josh Duhamel) and his wife Lauren (Charity Wakefield) are convinced their daughter deserves that spot, but so are Brian Young (Michael Socha) and his wife Sarah (Antonia Thomas). Both families want this preschool badly, which leads to some hilarious hijinks including a broken finger, a wrestling fail, and so much more.

The main message of Preschool is that both dads are so focused on winning the preschool spot that they completely lose sight of their actual kids. In one scene, Alan leaves his daughter inside an indoor skydiving machine -- she is clearly calling for his help, but he is too distracted talking to Brian to notice. The physical comedy lands well throughout, especially in the final fight scene where a window gets broken and someone gets clotheslined. Michael Socha brings wild energy as Brian, and James Cosmo as Brian's father adds grit and a grounded dose of reality that keeps things from feeling too over the top. The music perfectly fits the film's childlike and humorous tone -- it feels playful and a little chaotic, just like the dads themselves. The locations are also a highlight, with each family's home and neighborhood painting a clear picture of whom they are and who they want to be seen as. Alan's world looks polished and put-together, while Brian's has a rougher, more working-class feel, and that contrast adds a lot to the comedy.

The film's message is about not losing sight of your parenting goals by over-focusing on things like securing the coveted preschool slot. It is such a natural part of parenting to worry about your child's future, but worrying about it as early as preschool creates unnecessary anxiety - the film definitely mines that anxiety for lots of laughs. Be aware that the film includes themes of anger and there are a few scenes where the dads come to blows, but the film consistently finds a way to keep even those moments funny.

I give Preschool 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film is available on VOD starting March 17, 2025.

The animation in Time Hoppers The Silk Road stands out to me immediately. The characters are vivid and colorful, and intricate details of each character portray aspects of their personality or background. From the first introduction of the characters, I can easily identify which one is which, and differentiate their personalities. The colors they wear and their facial expressions match up to the actors' voices and their character as a whole. These well-rounded characters allow me to truly care that they end up safe and successful, making the film as a whole more engaging. Additionally, the settings are meticulously animated, with details from the Silk Road making appearances throughout. Although I'm not an expert on the Silk Road, I've learned enough in history classes to know that this film portrays this time period with an accuracy aimed for young children who may not have background knowledge. Both the plot points and astounding animation of the setting add a certain educational element that makes this film perfect for kids or an elementary school or middle school classroom environment. Overall, the story is engaging, contributing to the character development, educational value, and portrayal of the theme.

The film's message is that teamwork and courage is often the only way to accomplish goals. The main characters must work together to stop the evil alchemist, and they are only able to do so through collaboration. The film also emphasizes the importance of religious freedom and representation, particularly of the Muslim faith.

I give Time Hoppers: The Silk Road 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Time Hoppers: The Silk Road releases on March 31, 2026 on video on demand and streaming.

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Time Hoppers: The Silk Road is a great movie and I really like it! I like how, at the beginning, we get a quick understanding of Layla (Jayce McKenzie) and her family. A lot of movies start with a gentle beginning, but this movie gets straight to the point by starting with a chase scene. Plus, unlike most historical shows that take place in Europe or America, this one takes place in the Middle East and Africa, which really stands out.

The storyline follows four students from the Aqli Academy who find themselves time traveling along the historic Silk Road to save their friend Abdullah (Emily Gin). They end up having to save great scientists from the evil alchemist Fasid (Morris Seng). Fasid steals the time watch, which leaves Abdullah stuck in the past. This film is the first-ever Muslin-made animated feature to have a nationwide theatrical release in a celebration of Muslin heritage and history.

Something that stands out to me in this movie is the different personalities of the four kids - Abdullah, Aysha (Angel Haven Rey, Khalid (Tareek Talati) and Layla (Jayce McKenzie). Each part of the movie shows their strengths. Khalid, known as "Calculator," is the brains of the group, while Aysha is the strength, Layla is the heart, and Abdullah is the comedian. My favorite part is when Maryam (Jenna Abu Tineh), a girl astronomer in Aleppo, Syria, shows her father the astrolabes she made and wins the contest for best invention. It is a really sweet moment between her and her father. I also like how the guards and soldiers have personalities and even joke around, which doesn't usually happen in historical shows. The movie travels to places people don't usually learn about, like Baghdad, Cairo, Timbuktu and Syria, which made it more interesting.

The film's message is that you should not give up and you should not blame yourself when things go wrong. The kids keep trying to help each other, even when they make mistakes and things get difficult. Parents should know that the movie is very suspenseful and could be a little scary or confusing for younger kids. There is a lot of action and chasing, but there is no bad language.

I give Time Hoppers: The Silk Road: The Silk Road 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It releases on (where) on March 31, 2026/

By Spencer C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Imagine a world where time is the limit! Time Hoppers: The Silk Road is a futuristic and adventurous film that includes time travel. Combining unique history and animation makes it interesting to watch.

The film is set in 2050 and follows a widowed father, Habib (Omar Regan) who flees with his daughter Layla (Jayce McKenzie) to Vancouver, Canada after almost being captured because of inventing time travel. When three of Layla's friends are introduced to the time lab, they embark on an adventure trying to save history and restore it back to normal.

Time Hoppers: The Silk Road starts off strong and jumps straight to action with a trailer that got me hooked immediately. It is very well produced with its animation quality and futuristic looks - the beginning of the film is very interesting and fun to watch. Each character has a distinct personality, ranging from determined, to protective, and of course, funny. Another thing that caught my eye is the setting which always looks beautiful, fits the time period, and has lots of detail. While the film has many interesting aspects and a creative plot idea, I got off track at times when things became repetitive. I found the film a challenge to keep track of especially when they keep jumping to different times in history; that becomes confusing. There are also so many side characters in the film that add to the confusion.

The film's message is to not blame yourself. Layla blames herself for getting her friends into the time travel mess because she didn't go back to grab Abdullah's time device when he dropped it. She continues to feel guilty throughout the film.

I give Time Hoppers: The Silk Road 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It is available on VOD and streaming on March 31, 2026.

I Can Only Imagine 2 follows Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) as he faces the challenges of raising a family, including a son, Sam (Sammy Dell), who struggles with diabetes, amidst his band's big tour. Following Bart's personal struggles in the original I Can Only Imagine film, the sequel focuses on how the scars from his past continue to impact his present. A new addition to the tour, Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia), and his own struggles are introduced as the two characters form a bond and discover how to help each other. Bart must learn to cope with his past and strengthen his faith to move on and bond with his son, family, and fellow band members.

This film aims to empower viewers through emotional connection. It balances an atmosphere of grief with intense tones of hope and faith. The realness of the characters' experiences and struggles makes them relatable. Throughout the film, I felt myself forming deeper and deeper connections with the characters until their grief became my grief and their joy became my joy. The strength of emotion in this film shone through immediately, captivating me and bringing me into Bart's universe. The powerful acting performances, specifically in the roles of Sam Millard and Tim Timmons, deepen the emotional connections that viewers experience throughout the duration of the film. Furthermore, this film addresses the reality of life post-success. Many stories about musicians, actors, athletes, and other professionals who achieve success illustrate their success as the end of the story. They fail to acknowledge the reality that life always throws curveballs, no matter how much success someone has. The success of Bart's song brought him plenty of joy, but also brought new challenges. The flashbacks to Bart's experiences with his father provide insight into Bart's feelings and thought process, allowing viewers to better understand his struggles. This sequel serves its ultimate purpose of demonstrating not just the struggle and conflict of the characters' lives, but also how they cope with it by forming stronger relationships with each other and their faith. At its center, the film focuses on what brings us all together: passion, dreams, faith, and heart.

I Can Only Imagine 2 is extremely powerful in conveying a message that each and every person has their struggles, no matter what success they have had in the past. The film explores the idea that strengthening one's faith and focusing on what matters most is what will carry us through hard times. Viewers should be aware that the film covers sensitive subject matters, including chronic illness, as well as some mild profanity.

I Can Only Imagine 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. I Can Only Imagine 2 is playing in theaters now.

By Kyla C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

What do you get when you combine multiple hit songs, a powerful true comeback story, and a focus on faith and family? You get I Can Only Imagine 2, a sequel that delivers on all its expectations, and finds ways to excel and share God's word.

Following the events from I Can Only Imagine, lead singer of the Christian band MercyMe, Bart Millard (John Michael Finley), is living the life he always wished for with cheering crowds and nation-wide tours filling his days. But as his family evolves and tensions rise, he realizes that the hard times might not be over. His son Sam (Sammy Dell) is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, a condition that stresses the bond that Bart has maintained with him throughout the years. When a sudden change brings the cheerful musician Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia) into the band's fold, Tim's bright spark helps others see the world in a new light. Through this lens Bart comes to terms with his troublesome past, keeping in the present moment, while learning to trust God's plan for his future.

A great element of this film is how real all aspects are. Both I Can Only Imagine 2 and its predecessor I Can Only Imagine are based on true stories of Bart Millard and the band MercyMe. This greatly increases the relatability and connection of the plot - helping others who may be going through similar challenges. As Bart and Sam learn to put more trust in each other while the band tours nationwide, they realize that, maybe, they can work together after all. This, coupled with the support and inspiration from Tim Timmons, eventually culminates in my favorite scene of the entire film, the writing of the song "Even If." The way the directors stage and execute its filming is very smart, with echoes and flashes of past moments that influenced Bart's lyrics. Throughout this scene, I saw how much of himself Bart puts into his music. All his doubts, hopes, fears, trusts, not to mention Tim's own, are heard in his words. This makes for an epic and triumphant comeback. Using this freshly-made song, Bart, Sam, and Tim share God's love with those who need to hear it most.

This film's message is to always look and see God's goodness. Both Bart and Tim have difficult histories that they struggle with, but through it all, they realize they are looking for the goodness of God. They trust that God is with them in their struggles and, even if He doesn't lessen their load, their hope and faith is in Him alone. By the end of the movie they both are able to share gratitude instead of grief.

I Can Only Imagine 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in cinemas now.

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

I Can Only Imagine 2 is a heartwarming film that captivated and entertained me from start to end. I love how it manages both heavy and dramatic moments of conflict as well as more lighthearted plot points. It all culminates into a beautiful and valuable lesson by the end.

The film follows the true story of the band MercyMe, picking up from their rapid rise to fame following the success of their chart-topping, award-winning single, "I Can Only Imagine." However, things go from high to low fast for lead singer Bart Millard (John Michael Finley), when he discovers his teenage son, Sam (Sammy Dell) has type one diabetes. Following a career slowdown and trouble with his son, Bart reluctantly agrees to let Sam and singer Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia) join him and the rest of MercyMe on tour.

There are so many great things about this film, but the writing stands out. The screenwriter is clearly a master storyteller, effectively weaving together what is shown on screen with dialogue. Some scenes require more words to communicate the mood, such as when Bart bursts into the hospital after his wife, Shannon (Sophie Skelton), calls him to say that Sam isn't waking up. Others convey intense emotions with heated dialogue, such as Bart and Tim's conversation later in the film. The writer structures the story well by providing moments of levity in between more intense scenes. For example, Tim pranks his wife, Hilary (Arielle Kebbel) by pouring ice on her while she is in the shower and, in another scene; the MercyMe boys prank Tim while he is in the bathroom. The story moves along at a rapid pace and effectively utilizes flashbacks to support various character arcs. At one point, we see Bart struggling with his relationship with his son, and he leans into memories with his father, Arthur (Dennis Quaid) to figure out how to handle it. Another thing that I love is John Michael Finley's portrayal of Bart. He makes the character feel real to the audience with every single emotion - whether frustration, embarrassment, joy, or despair - and nothing feels fake. For instance, Bart's heartbreak feels so real, especially how much he blames himself for Sam's accident. I also really enjoyed the background music choices. They contribute to the mood and messages of the film. For example, when Bart leaves the hospital and enters the elevator he gets flashbacks of his father abusing him while stabbing Sam with the needle for his treatment. The music dies down and gets more serious as Bart witnesses a grieving couple whose child just passed away leaving the hospital. My favorite part is the character, Tim Timmons. His story of overcoming adversity is so inspiring. Even in the midst of having cancer, he continues to have a positive outlook on life and is pursuing his dreams. We see him put an X on his wrist every day to thank God for waking him up again, and then he goes on tour with MercyMe. His sense of humor is great too, like when he says, "It's nice for you to meet me" when he first met the MercyMe boys.

The film's message reinforces the concept of "it is well with my soul." No matter what situation life throws at us, we are never alone, because we have others to support us and we have God who is always there for us. The film stresses that our hope and trust is in God and God alone. Regardless of whether things change or not, all is well, because life is all about carrying grief and gratitude at the same time.

I Can Only Imagine 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in theaters now.

The storyline follows a girl named Mabel (Piper Curda) trying to save her local glade filled with peaceful animals. She would go there with her grandma whenever she wanted to find some peace in her life. The Mayor of Beaverton (Jon Hamm) has plans to destroy the glade with new construction. With the help of her teacher, Mabel uses technology to hop into a beaver's body and teams up with the animals and mammal King George (Bobby Moynihan) to save her land.

The animation in Hoppers is bright, lively and full of motion. Every scene feels like it's bursting with color and energy. The characters move so smoothly that I easily smiled along with them, especially during the funniest moments. The voice actors' performances stand out and really make this film shine. Piper Curda, as Mabel, shows her passion for nature through her voice so well. You can hear the excitement and the energy in her voice when she's happy and feel the desperation when her animals are hurt. Bobby Moynihan, as King George, has a parental tone when he teaches Mabel the ways of the pond and when he teaches her lessons about friendship, family, and trust. Jon Hamm, as the Mayor of Beaverton, also delivers a great performance; I particularly like how he shows how sometimes people try to be there for others, but hurt other things in the process. Meryl Streep's presence is felt even in a small body as the Insect Queen. Though she is small, she is formidable. The music adds so much joy to the story, with upbeat melodies that fit perfectly with the action and softer tunes that make the emotional parts feel warm and touching. The music works together with the animation to bring the world of Hoppers to life in a way that's fun for both kids and adults.

The film's message is about being still, watching, and listening; it shows that everyone and everything is connected, and how paying attention to the little things can help you understand the world around you. It also reminds us that everyone has good in them, even when they make mistakes. We see characters making choices that aren't always perfect, but by looking for the good in others, they learn kindness, empathy, and forgiveness. Finally, trust is shown like a dam - sometimes it might leak or get broken, but it can always be repaired when people work together to fix it.

I give Hoppers 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on March 6, 2026.

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

From the very first scene, Hoppers jumps straight into the kind of fun, heart, and adventure that Pixar does best. I was instantly pulled in by the humor, the colorful world, and the lovable characters. Before I knew it, I was fully invested in their journey. What I love most is how the movie balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotion, making it entertaining for kids while still meaningful for adults.

In Disney/Pixar's all-new animated comedy adventure, Hoppers, animal lover Mabel gets the chance to use groundbreaking technology to "hop" her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver, allowing her to communicate directly with animals. As she uncovers incredible mysteries of the animal world, she befriends the charismatic beaver King George and must rally the entire animal kingdom to face an imminent human threat: smooth-talking local mayor Jerry (Jon Hamm).

Visually, Hoppers is stunning. The animation is vibrant, detailed, and bursting with life - every frame feels thoughtfully crafted. The character designs are expressive and full of personality, making their emotions feel real and relatable. The voice cast brings incredible energy and heart to the film, perfectly matching both the humor and emotional beats. Bobby Moynihan voices King George, the leader of the pond, and his voice is perfect for the role. Piper Curda shines as Mabel, a passionate animal lover with so much heart, while Dave Franco is hilarious as Titus, a demanding and spoiled character who transforms into the Insect King. The music and sound design elevate key moments throughout the film, making the action exciting and the quieter scenes especially touching.

Hoppers delivers a powerful message about empathy, teamwork, and embracing differences. It reminds us that everyone has a voice and a purpose, even if they do not fit the mold or feel confident at first. It encourages viewers to be brave, to listen to others, and to believe that working together can lead to positive change, making Hoppers not just a fun movie, but a meaningful one that stays with you long after the credits roll.

I give Hoppers 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Hoppers in theaters March 6, 2026.

Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin) is one of the best Roarball players in the town of Vineland, and he pursues the dream of one day joining the big leagues to play for his hometown team, the Thorns. There is just one... small problem. Will is a goat, and no animal his size has ever even attempted to set foot on the court. But that's all about to change. When Will gets the golden opportunity he's been waiting for to join the team, he jumps at the chance. Unfortunately his towering teammates aren't exactly stoked that he's joining their ranks. However, with a little work, Will is determined to win over his team and show the world that "smalls can ball!"

What set this film apart from others is the level of authenticity and attention to detail that it provides. I had the opportunity to go onsite at Sony Pictures Animation and meet some of the creatives that worked on this film. From John Clark, GOAT's head of cinematography, and Keely Propp, the head of story, I discovered that many of the Roarball play sequences were inspired by actual basketball plays used by the Golden State Warriors. The moves were modeled like a game of chess using 3D printed incarnations of the characters before being animated. Speaking of the animation, the style is unique and very fast, with camera angles that zoom right into the middle of the action. It felt like I was on the court with the team! The storyline is one that I am able to appreciate, with Will giving his all to make his mother, Louise Harris (Jennifer Hudson) proud. The other members of the Thorns, Jett Fillmore (Gabrielle Union), Modo Olachenko (Nick Kroll), Olivia Burke (Nicola Coughlan), Archie Everhardt (David Harbour), and Lenny Williamson (Stephen Curry) have unusual chemistry, and Will's small-town personality clashing with their big-league personas is a great source of humor. Jett has been Will's hero since forever and, though things start off rocky between them, they soon learn to trust each other, and work together with the team.

This film's message is that no one is too small to dream big. Though Will might be the smallest player in all of Roarball history, he doesn't let that stop him from bringing his team together, and becoming the G.O.A.T.

I give GOAT 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on February 13, 2025.

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

The new animated film Goat comes out of the gate strong and never misses a shot. The film delivers high energy, heart, and style. I love how confidently Goat blends sports excitement with emotional storytelling. It's the kind of movie that had me cheering from the get go, laughing on the sidelines, and fully invested in every play.

Goat is an animated sports comedy following Will, a small underdog goat with big dreams to play "roarball," a high-intensity, full-contact sport dominated by large animals. Produced with Stephen Curry, the film follows Will's journey to prove that "smalls can ball" in a story inspired by overcoming odds.

Set against a sports-driven backdrop, the story centers on perseverance, teamwork, and finding your inner strength when it matters most. As the pressure builds and challenges mount, the journey becomes less about winning the game and more about discovering what it truly means to have heart. The characters are dynamic, relatable, and full of personality, each bringing their own strengths to the court. The music is phenomenal, perfectly amplifying the emotion and adrenaline of every major moment. The bold animation style, vibrant colors, and eye-popping visuals are truly a feast for the eyes, every frame feels alive and in motion. Combined with a sports-driven storyline, nonstop visual creativity and an all-star voice cast, which includes Stephen Curry as the voice of Lenny, a giraffe, Gabrielle Union, who voices Jett, a black panther, and Caleb McLaughlin, who voices Will, a goat. Goat plays like a fast break straight to the hoop, keeping audiences engaged and energized the entire time. It is truly an animated slam dunk that proves Sony Animation is still playing at an elite level. With its uplifting themes and emotional payoff, Goat proves that when you trust your game and keep pushing forward, anything is possible.

Goat delivers a powerful message about self-confidence, resilience, and never giving up, even when you miss a few shots along the way. It reminds viewers that greatness isn't just about talent, but about heart, determination, and believing in yourself when it counts.

I give Goat 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. So lace up your sneakers and sprint to the theaters to watch it on Friday, February 13, 2026.

By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I love this film! GOAT is a fun filled, humorous, inspirational animated story that made me feel happy throughout the film. I found myself laughing and being drawn into the plot and caring about each character's storyline.

GOAT is about a young goat, Will (Caleb McLaughlin) who dreams of playing professional Roarball. He works hard and trains until one day his wish comes true. However, he has a lot to learn about being on a team, believing in yourself, and never giving up. His teammates, Jett (Gabrielle Union), Lenny (Stephen Curry), Olivia (Nicola Coughlan), Archie (David Harbour) and Modo (Nick Kroll) are along for the journey with their own challenges.

This is one of those films that is a feast for your eyes. The background animation looks like it comes from a story book and every scene is filled to the brim with details. The film also includes camera angles that make it feel like you are there in the story instead of feeling like you are watching from the audience. There are so many details that I plan to watch this film again to see what I missed the first time. It excels in incorporating modern trends and music. I love the creativity that went into making each stadium where Roarball is played. I really like how each character is developed with anthropomorphic behaviors unique to each character. My favorite part is when Will takes Jett to the diner where he and his mom used to work at so she can meet some of her most loyal fans.

The film's messages include follow your dreams, never give-up, and embrace the qualities that make us unique. There are also messages about the importance of family and friends and a reminder that there is so much more to every individual than what we see on the surface. I also like that this film demonstrates taking ownership and responsibility for your actions.

I give GOAT 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. GOAT releases in cinemas February 13, 2026.

This inspirational documentary features interviews and footage not only from the women featured in the documentary, but also other prominent people during this time period, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor Roosevelt, President Harry Hoover, and Mary McLeod Bethune. Invisible Women is directed by Gregory S. Cooke and is narrated by Regina Cooke.

One of the many things I love about this documentary is how the film goes into detail about life before World War II, during the war, and after the war. It was touching to see the incredible challenges and endurance that African-American women had. I learned so much from this film and was surprised to learn that the nearly 600,000 African American women that helped the country during the war have been largely ignored by history. These brave women worked alongside white women and had to take the more dangerous and less desirable jobs, without promotions, and faced extreme conditions and unimaginable racism. One of my favorite parts is the reference to the image of "Rosie the Riveter" and the saying "We Can Do It!" followed by the image of an African American woman saying: "We Did It!" The stories of these remarkable women will stay with me long after watching this documentary.

The film's message is that the African-American women who entered the workforce during World War II were pioneers who overcame incredible obstacles to pave the way for future generations. They endured, persevered, and became role models for the Civil Rights Movement. Be aware that this film does contain brief discussions and images of sexual and racial violence.

Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Invisible Warriors releases on VOD on February 3, 2026.

By Julie O., age 12

Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II is a moving documentary about African American women who worked during World War II. The film has high-quality interviews and footage, an easily comprehensible format, educational and interesting content, and an impressive appeal to emotion. It is a worthy watch for anyone who is interested to learn about a severely undervalued group of workers during a prominent historical time.

The documentary portrays World War II from the perspective of African American women, showing their often unobserved efforts and accomplishments that were vital to the country. It emphasizes the prejudice and stereotypes, harsh working conditions, unjust pay, and lack of high-quality jobs that were available to African American women during this time period. Despite unfair conditions and their apparent absence from history, these women fought hard to work for their country and provide for fellow citizens.

The film's structure allows it to be informational and engaging, never spending too long on one interview or topic before moving on. It features photographs and archival footage from the time as well as present day interviews. The format of voiceover and narration placed with footage from the period allows viewers to hear women who actually experienced these things while also watching it take place. There are plentiful high-quality videos that authentically portray what their lives were like during this time period. Additionally, the film offers diverse perspectives, with multiple women sharing their stories. Whether on farms or in office positions, they worked long and hard hours to support industries as the country's soldiers fought in Europe and Asia throughout the war. The element that stood out the most to me was the raw emotion that was expressed in many of the interviews. At this time, many African Americans, especially women, were treated unimaginably poorly. This film portrays the tragedies of the time period first hand, showing children living in poverty and terrible health outbreaks such as TNT poisoning. The interview topics and timely footage work effectively to give an authentic and emotional learning experience for viewers.

The film's message is that African American women worked hard in unfair environments behind the scenes of a war and played a huge role in history, yet failed to be recognized for their efforts. The film emphasizes the idea that many groups throughout history have done valuable work that continues to go unnoticed due to the beliefs of the time period. Be aware that the film includes profanity and discusses and shows mature topics including sexual and racial violence.

Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on video on demand and streaming beginning February 3, 2026.

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II is an interesting and powerful documentary. I really like how this film includes real interviews from women who lived during this time.

The storyline focuses on African American women and the struggles they faced while trying to help their country during World War II. It consists of interviews and footage with the women involved and other prominent people from this time period.

The film shows how African American women wanted to work and support the war effort just like men, but were treated unfairly because of both their race and gender. It highlights how important equality was during this time and how hard these women had to fight to be seen and respected. The documentary begins with a shot of a poster saying, "Women needed for work!" which shows how badly the country needed workers at that time. Ruth Naomi explains how African American women wanted to help just as much as everyone else. A moment that stands out to me is when Willie Mae Goven says, "I looked in the mirror and we were people." This quote is very meaningful because it shows how these women wanted to be recognized as human beings. The film's use of interviews and actual footage really shows us what life was like for these women. However, the pacing sometimes is a bit slow.

The film's message is about equality and people who feel unseen who fight invisible battles even as they are helping their fellow Americans. Be aware that the film includes references to racism and some profanity.

Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD on February 3, 2026.

The story follows Simon Williams (Yahya Abul-Mateen II) as he tries to make his big break in Hollywood, pairing up with famous actor Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley), a man looking to reform his acting experience. However, in the process, Simon is forced into the world of superheroes as he finds he has his own powers, with Trevor attempting to help him hide it to make it in Hollywood.

The visuals are immaculate. It's filmed as if it is a documentary, following the characters around as they make it through life, which makes the series look realistic. For example, the camera follows Trevor and Simon as they look for a place to record in the second episode. The acting is phenomenal, especially Yahya Abul-Mateen II's portrayal of Simon Williams. He plays a character that is an actor, which means playing a character that plays characters. This is no easy task and he manages to perfectly encapsulate that while also playing his own character and showing us that Simon is a good actor. The story is outstanding - the comparisons between Simon and Trevor are brilliant, and their dynamic is super endearing. However, I especially appreciate how the film examines how Hollywood works within a universe where people are superheroes. The way it's written makes perfect sense and adds another obstacle onto the protagonists as people with powers cannot act. The pacing is quite good and helps give a feeling of suspense to what may happen next, especially when showing Simon's powers. The story also balances both Simon having powers and looking for acting roles, even managing to weave them into each other through both opposing the other. The series kept me invested and engaged the whole way through and also got me thinking about the way different people view acting and how they work together.

The series' message is that though an endeavor may not be working now, with more time and help from others you can make it happen. Be forewarned that there are depictions of murder and mentions of terrorism.

I give Wonder Man 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Disney+ on January 27, 2026.

Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Putting aside the strange pacing and an anti-climactic first few episodes, Wonder Man is a funny show with amazing acting and great themes!

The plot follows aspiring actor Simon Williams (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) and his unlikely friend, Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley) as they desperately chase the role of Wonder Man. But this proves a challenge due to Simon's overthinking nature and Trevor's secret agenda. Their friendship strengthens as they adventure through family reunions, auditions, and Simon's secret superpowers.

Wonder Man was a roller coaster watch. Good TV shows often have some confusion at the beginning to build up curiosity NS Wonder Man takes this to the next level. I was extremely confused about what was going on for the first four episodes. The plot in episodes one through three revolves around Simon trying to get the role of Wonder Man. This was not interesting enough to hold my interest. The show picks up after episode five. Simon's role as an actor is the focus for most of the show and actual action is often overshadowed by this story. Wonder Man makes many Shakespearean and theatrical allusions that are confusing. In fact, most of the dialogue between Simon and Trevor is about allusions and acting. A lot of time is spent discussing acting and we barely get to know the characters early on. I had a tough time connecting with his character and seeing his pain. Simon cannot reveal his powers and be himself because having powers is looked down upon. Although this is interesting, I didn't see Simon's struggle with this. There is no one in Simon's life that doubts him or enforces the "superpowers ban." The plot is not that bad and there are definitely elements that kept me watching. I loved seeing the parallels between the Wonder Man script and the actors' actual lives. I also love the metaphors the show hints at in the side stories about DeMarr Davis (Byron Bowers). They show how greed and fame can corrupt people; this episode is important to the plot and explains a lot about why Simon is afraid to show his powers. A highlight of the show is the acting and comedy. Trevor's comedic presence is extremely fun, and his jokes always land without being overly corny. Ben Kingsley's versatility as an actor is heavily highlighted throughout this. We see his serious side when Trevor comforts Simon and teaches him how to handle his anger. Kingsley portrays the perfect father figure to Simon as Simon believes he can fully rely on Trevor which leads to a perfect conflict between Trevor's secret agenda and his drive to help Simon.

Wonder Man explores themes of belonging and self-discovery. Simon is trying to find where he fits into both the acting scene and the world. Trevor's coaching helps Simon find himself through his acting. Wonder Man shows how the right people can bring out the best in you. Be aware that Wonder Man contains some profanity and alcohol use.

I give Wonder Man 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch it on Disney+ beginning January 27, 2025.

This documentary, directed by Leslie Iwerks, explores the making of Disneyland through interviews, videos, and pictures of Walt Disney and the talented people who helped build "The Happiest Place on Earth," including never before seen footage. The film starts one year before the opening of Disneyland, when Walt Disney introduced the plans and concept design for the amusement park on his new TV show. The documentary continues showing the progress and challenges over the months, weeks, and the last days leading up to its grand opening on July 17, 1955.

Genius. Passionate. Creative. Talented. Detailed. Crazy. Failure. These are some of the words used to describe Walt Disney and the people who helped build Disneyland. The pursuit of a life-long dream and the risks that Walt Disney was willing to take to see his dream come to life is a major focus of the film as well as the hard work, talent, creativity, and perseverance shown by the people who created and built the park. I have seen other documentaries about Walt Disney and Disneyland and I really like that this shows more of the attention to detail that went into creating Disneyland and discusses the many obstacles that they faced while building it. I enjoyed the interview footage with the people that built it - their memories of Walt Disney are a primary focus of the film. My favorite part of the documentary is the montage of funny construction segments. I was surprised to learn that there were so many obstacles that almost kept the park from opening, including several mishaps in the last few days. It was neat to see how crowded it was on opening day and to see some of my favorite rides and buildings being built.

The film's message is really about the effort, struggle, hard work, and creativity that went into creating Disneyland in 1955.

I give Disneyland Handcrafted 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Disneyland Handcrafted releases on Disney+ on January 22, 2026.

By Julie O, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The documentary Disneyland Handcrafted puts you right into the pressure and expectations of building the world's first ever wonderland theme park, Disneyland.

The film follows the lead-up to opening day for Disneyland in 1955. We see monthly updates of the progress while it is being built and experience the stress, worry, and sense of urgency to finish it on time and on budget. Simultaneously we see the skepticism of those who believed it would never be successful.

This is an admirable film that I enjoyed quite a bit. In terms of its practical aspects, we get to see never-before-seen footage from over 70 years ago, which was filmed in black and white. Still, this film lets us truly experience what it was like for the hands-on building of this theme park. The archival footage really enhanced the experience for me as it switches between the original black and white film and the colored footage of the current park. I really enjoyed hearing the first-hand perspective from those who worked on it and learning what everybody thought about Disneyland, even Walt Disney talked about his hopes and dreams for the park. It was interesting hearing the critics say that it'll never pan out. Hearing the different lead workers like the painters and mechanics was insightful, especially those who stated that some parts would be impossible to complete by the deadline. The film really made me aware of how the sense of urgency ramped up throughout the film as it counts down the months, weeks and days to opening day. We really see how stressed out everyone was and how behind they were, which really helps put you right there with the team. Finally I really enjoyed learning about the history behind the park. We get to see the full story of the building of the world's happiest place on earth - Disneyland.

The film's message is to not give up and not push back, but to dig your heels in and push forward to reach your goal, in spite of what the critics may say and even with as the deadline approaches. Keep pushing your dream. People advised Walt Disney to push back the opening date but he chose to deliver on the promise that he made.

I give Disneyland Handcrafted 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. This film releases on Disney+ January 22, 2026.

By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Disneyland Handcrafted is an incredibly interesting documentary about one of the most famous theme parks in the world. I gained so much knowledge and appreciation for the team behind this park, thanks to the hard work by the filmmakers. It has a great soundtrack, visuals, and perfectly shows the highs and lows never before seen about the process of creating Disneyland.

The documentary, created from archived footage and audio, shows the creation process of Disneyland from a year before opening, to opening day. Month by month we see the struggles that came with building it in such a short time and budget and watch how the crew overcame all odds and made their opening day deadline.

The concept of this film is executed perfectly. The thing that sticks out to me the most is the soundtrack - it is perfect and enhances the emotion it's trying to portray. In funny scenes, the music is upbeat and fast tempo, while in the sadder or hopeful ones, the music becomes slower and heartfelt. Also, the music is also incredibly catchy throughout and adds to the nostalgic feeling of the film. I also love the pacing of the film, and how it allows us to follow the crew month by month, just as they experienced it. This helps build suspense and intrigue for whether or not they will manage to finish by their deadline. It also shows the development and slow improvement of the land as we watch it go from nothing to a full theme park. Using archival footage with voiceovers of people who worked on the project make the film unique. Hearing these people describe how they succeeded adds to the overall message of determination, while also allowing these hard workers to shine. I learned so much about the creative process of building the park that I never knew before. This film gave me a new appreciation for everyone that helped make Disneyland possible.

The film's message is that even if something is not easy, it's possible if you combine hard work with determination to get it done.

I give Disneyland Handcrafted 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Disney+ on January 22, 2026.

This docuseries covers Swift's journey through the ground breaking Era's Tour which ran from March 17, 2023 through December 8, 2024. It showcases everything from scary terrorist threats to her personal love story. It highlights many of the tour's performers showing that Taylor Swift is not afraid to share the spotlight. She states multiple times throughout the series how she doesn't want her performers to blend in but to stand out as individuals. Everyone has a story, and people should always feel bigger than they are. Swift's professionalism comes through as we see how she started her journey and became the superstar that she is today.

This series is full of heartfelt experiences and emotions. Swift's dedication to her fans, crew, family, friends, and others who come into her life is inspiring. The film takes time to not only look at Swift's life but also the people who contributed to making the tour a success. The personal segments about individual tour dancers give a new perspective to Swift's ability to make sure everyone gets respect and acknowledgement for what they put into the show. The show really highlights the raw emotions of each individual and showcases their resilience to fight through everything from cancer to the challenges they overcame on their path to success. We see how Swift takes time to show her appreciation. In one episode, Swift is shown writing handwritten notes to all members of the show and how she met with each one of them individually. Taylor Swift's impact on the world is huge and her creativity and drive is the fuel to her success. She is constantly creating, and does everything she can to provide a positive escape for her fans as well as herself. The tour helped her find her purpose while creating a bonding experience for thousands of fans across the world.

The film's message is about the importance of accepting all people. Allowing individuals to be unfiltered is small, but meaningful. Her impact is widespread. Be aware that this series has mature themes and strong language.

I give Taylor Swift: The End of An Era 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available on Disney+ beginning December 23, 2025.

By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era gives us the opportunity to discover what made the difference between a regular high-grossing tour and the experience of a lifetime! This six-episode docuseries provides insight into how Swift's team made this happen, with behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, performer spotlights, and peeks into Swift's personal life. We get a full look into what it is like to live the life of Taylor Swift as she performs one of the most remarkable tours of all time and its mind boggling.

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era focuses on Taylor and her journey throughout The Eras Tour. From the tiny plastic stage models to the live concerts with over 70,000 attendees each, the viewer gets a glimpse into how this tour was created. The episodes generally follow chronological order, with the first episode focusing on pre-tour rehearsals and the last episode showing the tour's conclusion and lasting impact. The docuseries spotlights many of the dancers, singers, band members, and backstage workers.

Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour set records in nearly every measurable aspect of a musical tour- spreading across countless countries, earning billions of dollars in revenue, and generating jaw-dropping attendance both inside and outside the stadiums. However, the true accomplishment of this tour simply can't be described by statistics. This 21-month sensation of a pop phenomenon changed not just economies; it impacted each and every concert attendee on a personal level. Considering The Eras Tour's incredible success, it's natural that both devoted Swifties and outside observers would be interested in how this tour came to be. This series absolutely delivers in answering my questions. It dives deep into the stage effects, dance rehearsals, song choices, guest appearances, costume design, acoustic set mash-ups, and so much more. A highlight in each episode is the performer spotlights. Whether showcasing one of the dancers or a costume designer, we get a close look into not only their work for the tour, but also their personal life and accomplishments. This provides a well-rounded view of the tour, as it shows the personal journeys of those who were vital to the tour becoming such a phenomenon. Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era continues to exceed my expectations through its emotional reach. Each episode is guaranteed to leave the audience with laughs, tears, and most importantly, smiles. Despite the presence of some unimaginably tragic obstacles that the tour's performers, fans, and attendees faced, the tour continued delivering the audience what they needed: an escape from the constantly changing world around them. Taylor emphasizes this throughout this series as she shares both personal and large-scale difficulties that occurred throughout the tour and how she knew her priority had to be showing up for the fans and giving them the experience they both paid for and expected. The docuseries portrays this purpose with such clarity, painting a picture of not only the tour itself but the goals and vision Swift had for the tour.

This series expresses the purpose of The Eras Tour, which was to provide a space for people to join together, escape from the outside world, and have the time of their lives. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and family within a work environment, showing how this promotes positivity and unity both on and off of the stage throughout the tour. Note that it does include some profanity and some mature topics, such as a detailed discussion about attempts at violence on the tour.

I give Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can view all six episodes of Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era on Disney+ beginning December 23, 2025.

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Taylor Swift: The End of an Era is a six episode series showing the strongest moments and struggles of Swift's Eras tour. I Was Captivated By The Raw Emotions Of Taylor, Her Family And Those Working On Stage And Behind-The-Scenes. The music and camera work pairs well with the emotional depth of the tour story and it kept me wanting to watch until curtain closed.

The series gives us a thorough understanding of what it took to create Swift's record-breaking 18 month tour. Each episode layers the logistics of producing this show and gives insights into the tremendous dancers and musicians that share the stage with her. We see the special relationships Taylor forms with her team in rehearsals that come to life on stage. The series also displays collaborative moments with fellow artists and the impact they had on the tour. The real life struggles that happened alongside the tour are showcased with emotion and care. I love how the series highlights Taylor and who she is as a person, what goes into her songwriting, the tour's vision, and the people that surrounded her to make this amazing tour happen.

The people who contributed to the 149 shows across the world come to life in this series. You can feel how special they all are and how they each are part of the story. I was inspired by one of Taylor's dancers, Kameron, who talks about how people always made him feel like he had to change himself if he wanted to be successful. He says that Taylor never made him feel that way and she was incredibly welcoming and supportive. I was brought to tears more than once. One moment that really stands out to me is when there was an attack on the tour. Taylor emotionally talks about how that moment was not only very scary for her and her team, but devastating for her fans. Her fans ultimately are what gave her the motivation to show up and give the best show to bring happiness during a dark time. I love the portrayal of Taylor as an iconic performer and also as a human with real ups and downs. She shares that when one of her singers has health struggles. I also enjoyed how perfectly the moments in the tour match Taylor Swift's songs to reflect and bring them to life. Moments that resonate with me are the quick wardrobe changes and seeing the countless fans showing up for her performances.

Authenticity and personal drive are themes woven throughout the series. It shows us that people from all backgrounds, with their own stories, can come together to experience joy in a fun and meaningful way.

I give Taylor Swift: The End of an Era 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. All six episodes are streaming on Disney + as of December 23, 2025.

The story takes us back to Pandora, where the Sully family is mourning the death of their son Neteyam (Jamie Flatters). This sparks a chain of events leading them to a new tribe, a betrayal, and intergalactic warfare. Their adopted son, Spider (Jack Champion), comes to grips with the harsh reality that without being able to breathe in the Pandoran atmosphere, he'll be unable to live there. Jake (Sam Worthington) decides to send him away and the family begs him not to - or to at least let them go as a group on one final trip, as a family, to drop him off. Begrudgingly, Jake accepts.

One of the best things about the Avatar saga is how much it addresses real world themes. The humans have destroyed earth and are senselessly colonizing Pandora. The Banshees experience deep polarization; cut off from the Na'vi and left without a connection to the land, they act blindly in hatred of something different. All of these story elements connect to things we're experiencing today but when woven in with the fantastical world of Pandora, it feels exciting and fun, even as thought provoking, deep topics are explored. The visuals and character animation in Avatar: Fire and Ash are epic and it's worth seeing in the theatre for the 3D experience. The first person flying scenes feel like you are actually flying in the world of Pandora. It is unlike anything I have ever experienced! The actors perfectly depict their characters' emotions, and that is particularly challenging when most characters are made with advanced CGI using performance capture. And, the movie begins with a message from Avatar director and creator, James Cameron that the film was made without the use of any of the new AI tools. The fact that they can painstakingly make more than three hours of rich and engaging content that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire movie will never cease to amaze me. If you are looking for a film to watch over winter break, look no further.

The main message of Avatar: Fire and Ash is that every day we have a choice, to do the right thing, or do the easy thing. This film includes themes of family connection, parental love, and the power of working together to fight for what's right. As Jake Sully says, "Many arrows together cannot be broken." Parents should be aware, there is a lot of violence, but none of the shots highlight the gore.

I give Avatar: Fire and Ash 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theatres on December 19, 2025.

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I really enjoyed the movie Avatar: Fire and Ash because of its ruthless villains, shockingly realistic portrayal of Pandora, and how the characters' reactions perfectly line up with what one might expect, considering their personalities.

The story takes place on the planet Pandora and follows Jake (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and their children, Spider (Jack Champion), Kiri (Sigourney Weaver), and Lo'ak (Britain Dalton) as they work to stop the humans, Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang), Varang (Oona Chapi), and the Ash tribe from covering Pandora with fire. They decide to send Spider away and go with him to see him off, but their ship is attacked by the ruthless Ash tribe. In the end, Jake and Spider get captured, but are freed by Neytiri. Colonel Quaritch and the Ash tribe form an alliance, and a huge battle takes place, which the Na'vi luckily wins.

This is an amazing sequel to the first two movies, directed by James Cameron, and really adds to the story line in a way that isn't overwhelming, and also is necessary. The story really demonstrates the importance of family love, and how we should not take what we have for granted - especially not in nature. My favorite character is Varang, because of her commanding presence, and her clear protective instincts for her tribe. All of the actors' portrayals of their roles are impeccable, and line up with their characters perfectly. My favorite duo is Varang and Colonel Quaritch, because they suit each other so well, and really have a clear impact. My least favorite part is when we find out that Kiri can't connect with Eywa, because her mother is human...sort of. The film's sets are wonderfully made, and really embrace the natural beauty of Pandora, using the forest, the ocean, the fire, and more. This film is somewhat darker than the previous films, introducing the stark, Ash-covered lands and fiery culture of the Ash Clam with their red and black body paint and volcanic homes - which contrast with the lush landscape of Pandora.

The film's message is about learning to let go of what you believed to be the truth, and learn to accept new cultures, and traditions. Be forewarned that there are some extremely violent scenes, partial nudity, and adult references.

I give Avatar: Fire and Ash 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on December 19, 2025.

This season adapts the second book in the series, The Sea of Monsters, following Percy, Annabeth, and a cyclops named Tyson as they journey into the Sea of Monsters to find the Golden Fleece and save Camp Half-Blood.

This series offers an amazing mix of magic, friendship, and epic quests that really shines with its amazingly talented cast. Walker Scobell returns as Percy Jackson, bringing humor and bravery to the character, while Leah Sava Jeffries plays Annabeth Chase with intelligence and heart. Aryan Simhadri reprises his role as Grover, adding both comic relief and loyalty that make him a fan favorite. New characters are introduced this season, including Daniel Diemer as Tyson, the lovable Cyclops, who is also Percy's paternal half-brother, the son of Poseidon. The settings are spectacular - Camp Half-Blood feels even more immersive, from the cabins and training grounds to the surrounding mythical landscapes. The costumes are on point, reflecting each character's personality and role while staying true to the books. The action sequences are thrilling and well-choreographed, and the CGI brings creatures and magical effects to life in a way that's both believable and exciting. The story balances moments of humor, friendship, and tension perfectly, making it feel like an epic adventure that's also deeply personal for the characters.

This series is about courage, friendship, and staying true to yourself even when the odds are stacked against you. It shows that heroes aren't defined by their powers alone, but by their choices, loyalty, and willingness to do what's right. Season 2 reminds viewers that teamwork, trust, and perseverance can overcome even the most impossible challenges, and that growth often comes through facing your fears head-on.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It premieres on Disney+ on December 10, 2025, with the first two episodes available that day and the other six episodes roll out weekly.