KIDS FIRST!
35 Most Recent Endorsements

The production quality is impressive, featuring exciting music and sound effects. Highlights include a hilarious rap battle and Uncle Rico, who steals the show with his great personality and puns. It's clear that everyone involved had a blast making it, and the kids break down scientific concepts seamlessly. Writer, director, and producer Eliud George Garcia delivers a standout educational short.

Lister and Arias bring winning personalities, beautiful styling, and infectious humor to their roles. While the plot has continuity issues--such as the mermaids struggling to walk but seamlessly learning to roller skate--the visual effects, camera work, and editing are impressively executed for an elementary school production. The scene where the duo first transitions to humans and navigates having legs is a creative, funny highlight.

Celebrating new experiences and enduring friendship, The Wishing Pearl delivers a charming, wholehearted adventure.

The plot is easy to follow and uses funny behind-the-scenes interviews to highlight the kids' hilarious lack of planning. Directed and written by Emily Huffines, the film features witty dialogue tailored to the story. Eden Swift shines as Sam with great line delivery, and the energetic painting montage stands out as a high point.

While the young actors lack experience and the camerawork features a few awkward pans, the film's overall charm makes it an entertaining watch. The story offers a fun message that the best outcome can sometimes come from the most unexpected source.

Created, written, and directed by young filmmaker Armon--who also provides all the voiceovers--the film features fun touches, including Star Wars-style opening text scrolls, creative sets, and a well-executed lightsaber battle. While stop-motion animation is notoriously tedious, the film suffers from technical shortcomings like inconsistent focus, choppy character movement, and unclear facial details. Furthermore, the unlicensed use of the song "Mull of Kintyre" prevents it from qualifying for festival play under fair use guidelines.

Despite some mild LEGO violence, the film delivers a funny, action-packed ending with the message to always be prepared for the unexpected.

The animation is crisp, colorful, and high-quality, cleverly using a contrasting color palette--dark, muted tones for human environments against vibrant neon shades for the aliens--to enrich its futuristic themes. Set across Earth and stunning cosmic landscapes, the action-packed story moves at a fun pace across time.

Without dialogue, the film relies entirely on energetic sound effects to drive the narrative. While the audio can occasionally feel slightly overwhelming, the visual storytelling remains fun, accessible, and deeply relatable. Its clever satirical message gently reminds us to be mindful of our overreliance on technology and artificial intelligence.

From its origins in Mongolian culture to being one of the very first sounds Nadima ever heard through his cochlear implant, the Morin Khuur serves as a deep source of personal inspiration. Members of the deaf community will easily relate not just to Nadima's daily struggles, but to the overwhelming joy he radiates when listening to music, even if his hearing remains imperfect. Beyond that, the film appeals to anyone who uses music to connect with their roots. By interweaving the history of the instrument with his personal journey, Nadima offers viewers meaningful insight into both Mongolian heritage and deaf culture, encouraging diverse communities to draw closer together.

The Morin Khuur itself is deeply rooted in Mongolia's history, with a design reflecting centuries of companionship between nomads and their horses. The documentary excels at covering the full scope of the instrument's cultural weight, highlighting the origin legends and music that explain why Nadima resonates so strongly with it. Visually, the film is beautifully crafted, seamlessly blending live-action footage with charming snippets of animation as Nadima's narrative unfolds.

Throughout the film, Nadima establishes a powerful, positive presence for himself, proving to be a fantastic role model for audiences of all backgrounds. My favorite part of the documentary is when Nadima expresses that he feels it is his calling to advocate for and represent both the deaf community and individuals with learning differences. His earnest willingness to help others is something the world needs more of, and it is wonderful that his film actively sets out to accomplish that mission.

The relatable characters, logical plot, and realistic reactions make the film easy and fun to follow. The cinematography features beautiful shots--especially during the sisters' bike searches--though it suffers from occasional pixelation and frame ratio shifts. While the lead actors give authentic performances, their fast dialogue delivery and somewhat echoey audio take away from certain scenes. However, the well-designed screenplay connects every piece of evidence, leading to a deeply satisfying climax.

The film's message is to always be there for your family and avoid keeping secrets from those you care about.

Writer Kate Offenberg and director Lykke Sand Michelsen weave a compelling story enriched by breathtaking nature shots, a tranquil soundtrack, and magical visual effects. The cast delivers standout performances: Sia Alba Steckel Magnussen powerfully conveys Anna's internal struggle, Oliver Ye Lu adds humor as the frog-boy (especially in the fly-catching scene), and Iben Dorner authentically portrays a grieving mother.

The film's message is that while loss is difficult, we don't have to carry grief alone--relying on loved ones helps us process change and move forward.

The story follows a bunny, a cow and a bear as they play outside. When they lose their dragon kite, they go searching for it in a stone structure. As they enter they find a beautiful garden with an abundance of fruit free for the taking. However, they aren't alone... and this animal doesn't appreciate them stealing. This is from Croatia but there is no dialogue so it's appropriate for younger children.

The story is simple and intriguing. It is completely fantastical but still relatable. The characters' actions and emotions feel real and like something I might do. It's easy to follow as well as logically developing. The animation is amazing. We get many shots from interesting angles, from bird's eye view to close ups of the characters. Every single shot impressed me! However if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the birds-eye view of the secret garden. It is beautiful and I could watch it for hours.

The characters are animated and don't talk, but the way they are animated really brings them to life - their fears, their happiness, confusion, disappointment. It all feels real even though they are far from human. My favorite part of the film is when the characters explore the secret garden, sampling fruit from the trees and turning different colors as they do so. It's fun exploring a new place. However, after their initial foray into the fruit sampling, the next thing you know a fuzzy animal is chasing them and nipping at their heels. It's time for them to get their kite and leave.

The music and sounds add to a perfect harmony. Neither one overpowers the others or is hard to listen to. I especially love the opening with the music complimenting the laughter and sounds of the characters. The music, animation and emotion all come together to create the most beautiful scene of the film full of color and life.

The film's message is not everything is yours. Just because you happen to find something doesn't mean no one else owns it or it is yours for the taking.

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.

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 Flip (voiced by Kennedy Rene) and his friend Muzz after a trip to the Natural History Museum. Inspired by the exhibits, they decide to dig for dinosaur bones in their backyard. When they come up empty-handed, Flip turns to his journal, using his imagination to travel to a magical place where dinosaur skeletons come alive and dance.

The show is very easy to follow and perfectly tailored to its target audience of 5 to 8-year-olds. The animation style and set designs are standout features, offering crisp, bright colors and shapes. Kennedy Rene brings an abundance of excitement and enthusiasm to the voice of Flip. I particularly love the celebration of journal writing, imaginative play, and the charming anthropomorphic dog characters that kids will easily relate to. The background music is equally exciting, driving the film forward at a brisk, engaging pace.

A unique highlight of the film is the second half, where Flip breaks the fourth wall to give the audience a drawing lesson. Using simple, recognizable shapes like circles, rectangles, zigzag lines, and the letter "M," he breaks down the artistic process into easy-to-follow steps. It is so well done that even an adult viewer will feel confident they can draw it! This segment is based on the proven educational work of artist and teacher Angelo DeCesare, whose "Flip" drawing method has been used in New York City schools for over 25 years. DeCesare serves as both the writer and director of this episode.

My favorite part is definitely the drawing instruction, though the film does end rather abruptly right after the lesson concludes. It simply stops without a formal wrap-up or credits sequence. However, everything else about this short is so wonderful and high-quality that it remains easy to recommend.

The show's message is to experience the world around you with friends to help shape your understanding, all while having fun.

I give Flip's Fantastic Journal 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8.

The film is well-produced, featuring excellent camerawork, crisp audio recording, and delightful animal puppets that appear whenever music is played. The pacing is full of wonderful surprises; after showcasing brilliant musical performances, the film transitions into tutorials demonstrating how each instrument is played. I was thoroughly impressed by how these accomplished musicians could imitate animal sounds through their instruments, like recreating the sounds of birds or dragonflies.

Director Carlo Olmos Carrillo (from Guanajuato, Mexico) deserves immense credit for creating such an innovative, visionary project. A true highlight is when Heather plays the clarinet to perfectly mimic a dragonfly. The setting shifts gracefully between Mexico and a modern Broadway stage, keeping the visual backdrop engaging and inspiring.

The film's message is that music has the power to connect and bring people together.

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.

The storyline follows a neurodivergent teenage boy who has a fixation on birds as he navigates school bullying at the same time he's dealing with his first crush.

This three minute animated film is compellingly created. The animation is simple but deeply reflective on the storyline. Helen Mavourneen Farrell delivers a narration that is wonderfully clear and articulate. However, the delivery feels a bit formal; a more relaxed, conversational approach would help younger viewers connect more deeply with the story. The protagonist, Darwin, is neurodivergent and has a fixation on birds. His bedroom is papered with images portraying birds' migratory patterns. We see him at school where the students speak and their heads are turned into the heads of the birds that they are most like - a clever way to portray their personalities. It's quite interesting how the animation, which is starkly drawn two dimensional, manages to portray various types of birds and their personalities. We observe how Darwin is beat up by the other students at school and when his parents meet with the teacher (a crow), they say, "He's such a strange bird." And the parents walk out with Darwin in tow. To address how to attract his crush, Birdie, he reaches for a book called, The Love Life Of Birds, and heads out to the school dance. His performance on the dance floor doesn't attract Birdie but it does attract a whole other group of girls who join him and dance all night and, in the end Darwin found his flock. What I enjoyed most are the various depictions of different personalities as different types of birds. This is such a clever device to use. My favorite scene is at the dance when Darwin is joined by the flock of girls on the dance floor.

The film's message is about finding your flock.

The story follows Julia and Grace, 10-year old twin sisters, who take their dog, Ranger, out for a walk in the forest. As they're walking through the forest, they see a strange area that is covered up with a gold cloak; they unveil the cloak only to discover that it's a portal that their dog walks into and gets lost. They follow Ranger through the portal and, once they enter it, their clothing changes into princess gowns. They find Ranger, who has gained magical powers that allow him to speak like a normal human. However, they quickly discover that this new world isn't all fun and games, and evil lurks. Fortunately Grace employs her magic to help them escape in the nick of time. When they return, they question whether their experience was real or imagined.

Other than the talking dog, this plot is completely relatable and develops in a logical way. The camera work was good. I especially like the distant shots. Grace Johnson and Julia Johnson play the protagonists, Julia and Grace, and are quite adorable. They are fun and adventurous and quite enjoyable to watch. This is a family project with their mom, Jay Johnson, the writer, director and producer. (The girls are co-writers) I like the special effects, particularly the entrance into the portal. I like the pink and purple princess gowns and tiaras - they remind me of Disney princesses. This takes place in modern day time in a magical enchanted forest. The background music is very fitting and adds a bit of a magical touch to the film. My favorite part of the film is when Julia and Grace enter the portal and automatically are decked out as princesses.

The film's message is that adventure is worthwhile in itself.

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.

The animation direction is nothing short of brilliant, utilizing a clever mix of visual textures to delineate past and present. While our young protagonists are animated in a clean, modern 2D format, the historical figures they encounter appear as beautifully textured, stylized paper cut-outs, evoking the feeling of a living history book. Their glowing guide--visualized as a charming cross between a friendly specter and an illuminated paper lantern--adds a delightful touch of magic realism to the adventure.

Produced by the renowned French network Canal+, this is a top-tier, exceptionally polished production. Backed by a large, talented crew, the film boasts flawless pacing, rich sound design, and an accessible, articulate English voice track that ensures seamless viewing for domestic audiences.

When Women Stand Tall is a rare gem that perfectly balances robust educational merit with pure entertainment value. It is a vital, inspiring addition to the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival lineup that will spark wonderful post-screening conversations among children and parents alike.

The episodic, mini-story format is perfect for toddlers. The plot focuses on relatable, everyday challenges like friendship and problem-solving. In one sweet segment, a hedgehog friend reads multiple books to learn how to bake a birthday cake. In another, Takokuma stays out in the winter cold too long trying to pick an apple, and his friends lovingly help him thaw out. The characters also participate in familiar seasonal traditions, like carving Halloween pumpkins and exchanging Christmas gifts.

Director Wei Hsin Tsai, founder of Sunthingood Studio, intentionally designed Takokuma to express "genuine joy" in a taxing world. He beautifully proves that children's media can be deeply captivating without complex language or heavy storylines. Because there is no dialogue, the whimsical sound effects are imperative, perfectly conveying emotions like joy, confusion, and nervousness.

My favorite part is when the friends skip across river rocks. When they accidentally fall into the water, there is no conflict--they simply smile and continue enjoying their time together.

The show's message is that our differences are what make us unique. Even though the characters are all different species, they celebrate each other as best friends.

Originating in Taiwan, Takokuma Mini Theater makes a wonderful special-interest topic for Asian families, though its universal themes make it perfect for all children.

I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8, plus adults.

This short film is wildly entertaining and serves as a spectacular example of what can be accomplished by a young filmmaker working with friends. Created by eight-year-old, second-grade student Indie June England, this delightful Western romp is actually her third film! Indie is definitely a young creator to keep your eyes on.

The production quality is superb. Indie gathered her friends to help record audio, run the camera, and assist with the set design--even her babysitter got involved to teach them dance moves! All four of the young dancing bandits are fabulous; their genuine connection, dialogue, costumes, and Western accents are completely engaging.

The creative crew deserves major kudos. The choreography by Kaiya Kjar is right on target, and the dusty hideout set designed by Auden Hughes is wonderfully detailed. Audrey Bertrand provides crisp sound recording, and the energetic music drives the storyline straight through to the final scene. The special effects--including the light and smoke that burst forth when the magical boots are discovered in a trunk--are also a total treat.

The film's message is centered on working together to solve problems and reach a common goal, with friendship serving as a very strong underlying theme.

I give Boots and Bandits 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.

The documentary follows twin three-year-olds Aleque and Issay, their younger sister Tiwa, and their parents as they move from Sweden to the bustling city of Beijing, China. Their new apartment is surrounded by skyscrapers, quite unlike their home in Sweden. Naturally, they long for what they left behind, but they eventually learn to love their new environment after navigating unfamiliar foods, a new language, and a bicycle that won't cooperate!

The plot develops chronologically and is uniquely narrated in English by the younger sister, presenting the journey strictly from a child's point of view. The adults are present, but almost as secondary characters. The camerawork is up-close and personal, revealing the kids' intimate expressions as they learn to use chopsticks, play in the park, or visit local restaurants. Being three blond-haired children, they definitely catch the attention of the local families around them.

The film's director and writer, Tora Mkandawire M�rtens, is an award-winning documentarian and the mother of the three children. She captures their energetic, expressive daily lives beautifully. Music is used judiciously, adding an upbeat tune at the end and supporting a reflective moment during their grandfather's funeral. My favorite scene is when Aleque and Issay are running down the Great Wall of China--it is incredibly scenic and shows how happy they have become in their new country.

The film's message is that home isn't a physical place, but is rather a feeling of love and dreams.

I give Aleque & Issay 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.

The film develops logically. While the genie element is pure fantasy, Avery's insecurity and self-doubt are highly relatable for young audiences who are discovering who they are and who their true friends are.

The camerawork is very impressive, using drones to capture striking overhead shots, such as following Avery as she runs away from the house. The young cast portrays their characters wonderfully with impressive emotional depth, especially in a scene where Avery gets hurt. The costumes and minimal makeup stay true to their age group, while the genie's intricate teal-and-gold outfit perfectly sets her apart.

The technical elements are well-crafted. The music plays an excellent supporting role, starting with a mystical, optimistic theme during the title sequence and ending with an upbeat credit song. The special effects--featuring a glowing lamp, red smoke, and a fun sequence where Sunny morphs into human form--keep the magic alive.

The work of writer and director Kasha Fauscett stands out the most. Known for training young performers, her expertise shines through as she gives this talented youth cast a chance to star in a film with so much potential.

The film's message is that having true friends by your side can help you achieve anything; through friendship, Sunny learns about selflessness and sacrifice.

Advisory Note: Be aware that there is one bloody scene that takes place toward the end after Avery takes a fall.

I give Sunny 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12.

The plot is easy to understand through pure visual storytelling and clear emotional expressions. The exquisite animation looks like a series of vibrant watercolors with creative camera angles. In one clever shot, the camera takes on a binocular shape, pulling the audience directly into Camille's search.

While Camille starts off a bit self-focused, she becomes deeply emotionally aware once she realizes she hurt her friend. Her simple clothing makes her adventurous movements easy to read visually. Meanwhile, the chameleon's tail dynamically changes color to match a flock of purple birds when he tries to blend in after being left behind.

Set in a playful, fantasy-style forest, the film relies heavily on its music and sound effects to drive the narrative. Sounds like rustling leaves, footsteps, and bird noises beautifully bring this animated world to life. Director, writer, and animator Lucie Nichelmann--along with animator Manuel Schroeder and sound designer Tilman Kohler--deserves high praise for masterfully executing a story without any dialogue.

My favorite part is the ending, where the duo reunites. Camille is hoisted onto the chameleon's back for a hug, and she slides down to his tail, where she is gently rocked to sleep like she is in a hammock.

The film's message is about the value of friendship and the importance of recognizing and honoring another person's feelings.

I give Camille & Cham�leon 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults.

By rhythmically layering everyday noises into a "cacophony of happiness," the film invites audiences to find music in the world around them. It is a clever, high-energy testament to human creativity that is simply entertaining in a "big miniature" way.

I give The Square Symphony 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.

The storyline begins when a boy writes a note and puts it in the bottle and releases it into the ocean. This bottle is discovered and rediscovered time and again, as it travels across the world. The story is told without very little dialogue and the movements of the people and places relay the story as the bottle travels from India to Africa, Japan to Hungary, Chile to Israel and more. It gives us an overview of how people are alike and different.

This is a very heart warming story about how we are all connected. As the bottle travels around the world, people pick it up, study it, take their time to add a note to it and, eventually it returns to the original boy, now a grown man. The animation is a bit inconsistent - sometimes the same person is animated differently. In the African dance scene, people blend together or disappear entirely. I really like the scene where the boy wakes up in bed. There are many characters in this film; each of them writes a message that gets put into the bottle. I like how the bottle travels to different places and shows people of different ethnicities discovering it. Since this takes place around the world notes are left in many different languages. I love the inclusion of music and dancing, which beautifully tie the film together. I like the act of kindness when the boy gives a man on the street some food and how kindness is repeated as the bottle travels the world. I love the inclusion of the lighthouse in the story; the boy's journey begins and ends there - with him as the lighthouse keeper. I also like how the locations are included in the end credits. My favorite part is at the end when the messages are all taken out of the bottle and we see what every person wrote. The film's message is that everybody has a different story to tell and that we are all connected in some way.