KIDS FIRST!
35 Most Recent Endorsements

Minions: The Rise of Gru provides the backstory for how Gru (Steve Carell) came to be the notorious villain he is today. After being rejected as a replacement for Wild Knuckles (Alan Arkin) and failing to earn a much-coveted spot in the supervillain group Vicious 6, Gru unexpectedly finds himself on the run. As fate would have it, Gru's dream of being mentored by Wild Knuckles soon comes true, but not without Gru having to now lean on Wild Knuckles and his minions to fight back against the Vicious 6.

The three main minions--Kevin, Stuart, and Bob--each have unique character traits that make these films work. In Minions: The Rise of Gru, you can see how each minion plays a different role in how Gru grows as a villain and as a person. Kevin is the smart and responsible leader--he makes sure everything is going according to plan. Stuart is the one who is always in touch with reality, and makes sure the truth is known--he may seem uninterested, but he's very helpful. Bob is the lighthearted and innocent soul who always tries to make the best out of a situation. Without all three of these characters, this movie wouldn't be the same. There are many subtle references to the previous movies that add to the comedic tone, as well. For instance, in the scene where Gru and Wild Knuckles attempt to rob the bank, the bank president shows them an image of his grandson, who turns out to be none other than the aspiring villain, Vector. Of course, young Gru isn't aware that Vector will play a big role in his future, but the audience definitely is. These subtle references are what contribute to the nostalgic feel we get from watching this film. And, of course, we can't forget about Gru's iconic wardrobe, which he's already wearing as a young kid.

The message of Minions: The Rise of Gru is that everyone needs a little help sometimes. Even though he doesn't realize it right away, Gru eventually recognizes that he needs help in order to be the successful villain he desires to be.

Minions: The Rise of Gru is such a fun movie to watch. The lovable characters just make the audience continue to yearn for more. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, though anyone can enjoy this movie. Minions: The Rise of Gru releases in theaters on July 1, 2022. Make sure you check it out!

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 14

Minions: The Rise of Gru is exemplary, in that it contains all the wow factors I look for in a movie. It is funny and intriguing. The animation is amazing.

Minions: The Rise of Gru takes place in the 1970s when Gru (Steve Carell) was a child. The storyline follows his journey of trying to become the most dangerous supervillain. To make his dream come true, he tries to join a group of villains called the Vicious 6. His audition quickly goes downhill and suddenly Gru and his minions are on the run from the Vicious 6 villains.

They've come a long way since the original 2015 Minions movie. Gru's life story is told throughout the Minions and Despicable Me series, however, this addition to the storyline adds more details and fills the gaps of Gru's life that was missing. Just like the prior films, the minions are so hilarious and never lack for personality. A good thing about the Minions and Despicable Me films is that they are consistent with the character's personalities. There is the right amount of character development that brings all the characters to life, which gives it a realistic feel. The minion's language is interesting because it is mostly gibberish, called "minionese," mixed with a few recognizable Spanish words. Although most times you cannot understand them verbally, you can figure out what they are trying to communicate by their tone and facial expressions. They are just so cute! The minions wear their classic denim overalls, but some wear other outfits that fit their personalities. My favorite part of the movie is seeing the perseverance by the characters. It sends a positive message about not giving up and continuing to reach for your dreams, even when it gets tough.

The main message of this movie is that no matter how independent you think you are, everyone can use some help. Even the best supervillain needs help every now and then. We see this message portrayed throughout the entire film.

I give Minions: The Rise of 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it movie for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is a very funny and adventurous film that kids and adults will enjoy. It opens in theaters July 1, 2022.

The writers of the exciting film Minions: The Rise Of Gru, Matthew Fogel, Brian Lynch, and Matthew Fogel, definitely created a strong storyline. In this film we see who Gru's idols are and who he looks up to when becoming a villain. I definitely could not stop laughing while watching this film and I bet you won't be able to stop, too!

The film starts off with an object, which looks like an amulet, being stolen, and we meet the Vicious 6 (Gru's idols.) They betray their master and kick him off the team. So now Gru has an interview to work alongside the people he looks up to and become a Vicious 6 villain. If you want to see if he joins the team you're definitely not going to want to miss this film. We also see what things are like at home, school, with his mom and the overall backstory.

This film is definitely a fan favorite and with Steve Carell playing the voice of Gru it will be a crowd-pleaser. There are so many jokes and the things the minions do and say will make you laugh so hard. For example, the way they speak and, especially in this film, the mix of Spanish with "minionese." Like every previous Minion film, it has such a spark, the kind that truly entertains you and makes you laugh. What is unique in this film is the creation of a storyline that reveals Gur's childhood. We learn how rough it was for Gru at school and how his relationship with his mom caused him to become the person is in the future. The animation in this film is similar to the previous films, but way better.

The message of this film is to never leave a friend or someone you care about behind because one day they might save your life. There are a lot of action scenes, including ones where they fight and one where they use needles. So, I would warn parents that this may not be suitable for younger kids.

I give Minions: The Rise Of Gru 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find it in theaters July 1, 2022.

This film is about one of America's greatest festivals held in Louisiana, New Orleans. Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story takes a deep dive into the meaningful history and culture behind the iconic jazz fest. Furthermore, the movie shows the celebration of the music and the food of Louisiana.

There is so much talent and extraordinary culture that brings this wonderful event to life. Clips shown of the different jazz performances and cultural dancing all display the beauty behind it all. It's wonderful to see how they can keep the traditions and cultural aspects of Jazz Fest alive. From this documentary you will learn why the festival has a deeper meaning than just a fun festival that happens every year. It brings a positive and warm feeling to the people who attend Jazz Fest, while making the culture known and bringing awareness. Additionally, there were inspirational dance acts with beautiful clothing. The dance portrayed the meaning of the music while being played. This was my favorite part and very cool to watch.

I give Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in theaters June 10, 2022.

The storyline follows the protagonist, Wilbur (Jordan Fisher) as he discovers the potential for clothes to bring joy. He also happens to live in a community of naked mole rats who shudder at the thought of a mere sock. Although he aspires to open a clothing store in the town center, his band mates (Yvette Nicole Brown, Kate Mucicci, Michael Richardson) discourage his newfound dream, threatening to turn him in to the great Grandmah. Although she is a hero to the colony, she is also the most feared and powerful mole rat to exist. Will Wilbur continue to fight through the constant bumps in the clothing road, or will he become a menace to the colony and no longer be able to follow his dreams?

Jordan Fisher plays Wilbur with an innocence that makes his already charming character even more relatable. Yvette Nicole Brown as Wilbur's bandmate, Grande is hilarious and brings sass into this sweet film. Music is the most special part of this film- bringing emotion to the plotline. Because this film is directed towards younger kids, the music is easy to understand and the beats are catchy! The animation is unique and each mole rat is special and diverse. The clothes add a touch of color to the colony which enhance the message of this film. My favorite part of this film is the first time Wilbur watches clothes fall from the sky. He is filled with wonder and sings an upbeat musical number celebrating the beauty of self-expression.

The message of this film is that everyone is special no matter what they choose to wear, act, say or do. Following the trend may not always be right for everyone and that is okay, because being oneself makes us happy and the whole world more interesting. This is an amazing message to send to every kid and adult who feels like they don't belong because they are "different." This is definitely a film for younger kids, but parents/guardians would enjoy watching it with their children.

I give Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8, plus adults. It releases on Cartoonito on HBO Max June 30, 2022

By Nyara A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

With adrenaline pumping rock 'n' roll, high fashion and naked mole rats, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience combines three unrelated things and makes a perfectly-mixed animated production. Based on best-selling author Mo Willems' children's book, this is a super fun and funky animated adaptation.

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience is also a rock opera that tells the story of strong-willed, progressive-thinking, and fashionable mole rat, Wilbur J. Mole Rat Jr. (Jordan Fisher), who decides that he is willing to risk public humiliation to stand for what he believes in.

The cast of this film are all strong actors and actresses with a reputation for delivering excellence. Mo Willems and Tom Warburton are the geniuses behind the script for this remarkable film. With the help of world-renowned music composer Deborah Wicks La Puma, the script adaptation turned out to be a lighthearted, inspiring, rockin' good musical. The storyline follows Wilbur facing scrutiny and resistance from many mole rats in the community, including law-abiding and gentle-natured Tall (Kate Micucci). Venti (Kevin Michael Richardson) refuses to get dressed; there is nothing he cares about more than being a rock 'n roll musician, his mole rat bandmates, music and being naked. Yvette Nicole Brown gives a remarkable performance as Grande, the lead member of the high demand rock band, "The Mole-ing Stones."

This film encourages viewers to be courageous enough to ask the question, "Why not?" It's no longer enough to go along to get along. Wilbur reminds us that tradition is not a strong enough motivator to deny the passion and purpose you have in life. Thanks to Wilbur Mole Rat Jr., the moles in the tunnel are now liberated and dressed to the nines.

I give Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience releases on Cartoonito on HBO Max June 30, 2022.

Rise follows parents, Charles (Dayo Okeniyi) and Veronica (Yetide Badaki) Antetokounmpo, as they leave their home, and oldest son, in Nigeria due to immigration laws and head to Greece. There the couple struggles to find work and raise their children, Thanasis (Ral Agada), Giannis (Uche Agada), Kostas (Jaden Osimuwa), and Alexandros (Elijah Shomanke). Even though they are struggling to survive and dodging immigration, Giannis and Thanasis take up basketball for a local youth team. They find a passion for the sport and eventually are noticed by scouts, which starts their quest for the NBA ... but not without still playing defense against deportation, racism, and laws preventing them from getting work permits.

While the movie focuses on the rise of the Antetokounmpo brothers, the entire family is the star of this film. Everyone makes sacrifices in order for Giannis to get drafted into the NBA, which opened doors for his brothers. Every day leading up to the 2013 NBA draft is a challenge to avoid deportation. One wrong move can expose them and send everyone back to Nigeria. The film is an emotional rollercoaster as you follow the Antetokounmpos' journey from Nigeria to Greece to the NBA. My favorite aspect of the movie is seeing all the sacrifices each family member made for the overall goal. I enjoyed the old-school and hip-hop songs, which will draw in audiences of all ages. The camera angles also help engage viewers and give a close up understanding of the family.

Rise is all about family and sacrifice. The family shows what you can accomplish when everyone sticks together. Throughout the film, we see how Charles Antetokounmpo constantly reminds his children that "if one scores, then they all score." He instills in them the value of family and how they can't make it by themselves. Considering that Giannis, Thanasis and Kostas became the first trio of brothers to win championships in NBA league history, I would say they understood the assignment.

Rise is not just for basketball fans ... it's the perfect family movie that is just the inspiration we all need to keep pushing forward. I give Rise 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 10 to 18, plus adults. Rise tips off on Disney+, June 24, 2022.

For All Mankind is a science fiction drama series which poses to viewers the question, "what if?" What if, for example, history didn't happen as we know it? Season 3 episodes expose viewers to an alternative global space race that puts the Soviet Union in the lead ahead of the United States. As the United States is defeated in their race to put the first man on the moon, NASA must now work with great speed and efficiency to make certain that this alternative history doesn't repeat itself in the race to inhabit Mars! This renewed challenge has a new twist in which a third contender enters the space race--an ambitious, independent entrepreneur. Who will be the first to cross that finish line? You'll have to watch the series to find out!

What I enjoyed most about For All Mankind is that you never know what's coming next. Events are unpredictable and have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Some of the scenes are slow at times which allows viewers to critically think and imagine what's ahead within the episode. I also enjoyed how emotionally intense this series is. You don't have to be a part of that generation in history to appreciate For All Mankind. Anyone can enjoy these episodes which are brilliantly written, supported by a talented cast, and that offer such tremendous cinematography.

For All Mankind is a timely film series that provides us with a strong sense of teamwork which encourages people to work together despite division in society. The NASA team, made up of diversified astronauts, works so closely on their race to be the first to reach the Red Planet. There are plenty of obstacles on this path to success, yet with their strong communication, decision making, and optimism, the U.S. Space Team is determined to come out the winner.

I give For All Mankind 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Season 3 began streaming on Apple TV+ June 10, 2022. This is a great series and one you won't want to miss.

Eureka! Follows a fearless, young girl inventor named Eureka (Ruth Righi) who lives in Rocky Falls with her parents and pet Mammoth, Murphy (Fred Tatasciore). Eureka is always designing new inventions and contraptions in her prehistoric community to help make it more modern. From finding a way to get Murphy into the house when he couldn't use the door to creating a one-person band of instruments, whenever she "thinkers" she is sure to solve whatever issue she comes across.

Eureka as the lead character is the perfect role model for younger girls. It's amazing to see a young female like Eureka showing other kids that they aren't too young to be in the world of S.T.E.A.M. I love the support Eureka gets from her family, friends, teachers and the rest of her community. It really encourages her to be confident even when she doesn't always fit in. One of my favorite scenes is when Eureka and her mom Roxy (Ren�e Elise Goldsberry) are singing about the Rubber Tree Soup, and she shows that her mom doesn't give up when the soup doesn't come out the way she expects it to. While this series is set in a prehistoric time period, viewers will love watching Eureka modernize her community. An example is when Eureka redirects underground steam to create an oven for her mom's restaurant. It gives the show a unique twist that will draw viewers to it.

There are multiple messages throughout the series, like never giving up on your goals, and that even when you fail it's important to try again. Eureka also teaches young viewers about responsibility by taking care of her pet Mammoth, Murphy. Overall Eureka! Teaches kids all about the world of S.T.E.A.M., being fearless when solving problems, and creating inventions even as kids.

I give Eureka! 5 out of 5 stars. This is definitely a kid-focused, family-friendly series, so I recommend it for kids 2 to 8. Eureka! Debuts on Disney Junior June 22, 2022, and on Disney+ the same day.

The film follows Riley Harrison (Brayden Eaton), an adventurous young boy. Riley discovers pteranodon eggs in the town where his grandfather lives, aptly named Dinosaur Cove. With the help of Dr. Theresa Starr (Holly Houk), he must protect them from a mad scientist named Dr. Victor Vandersaurian (James Pilachowski) and get them to safety. Throughout his journey, he strengthens old bonds, especially with his writer father Wyatt Harrison (Jared Withrow), whom he has grown distant from after his mother's passing.

Director Daniel Knudsen hits another home run with Dinosaur Cove. It's evident he's coached the talented actors very well -- they deliver dialogues naturally and emote organically. The script by Derrick Steele is also wonderful; there are no stilted scenes where dialogue feels unnatural. I also love Knudsen's cameo in the film as egg expert Terrance Walker. The cinematography is incredible and I especially love the ending shot of pteranodons flying across the horizon at sunset. It's easy for a romantic subplot to be underdeveloped in an indie film, but the subtle romance between Wyatt Harrison and Dr. Theresa Starr is one of the most heartwarming parts of the film and provides for superb character development, especially in the case of Wyatt, who is recovering from the loss of his wife just a year ago. Jared Withrow and Holly Houk do justice to their roles.

Dinosaur Cove promotes always doing the right thing, even if no one is watching. It also emphasizes teamwork and protecting the vulnerable. It truly is a film with great, family-friendly messages.

I give Dinosaur Cove 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8-12, plus adults. Dinosaur Cove released on June 1, 2022 on digital.

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

Who doesn't love a good dinosaur story? Dinosaur Cove is here to entertain you and widen your imagination. With a fun mystery, interesting characters, and a surprising twist, this movie will have you wondering... could dinosaurs still exist?

Dinosaur Cove is about a young boy named Riley (Brayden Eaton) who moves with his dad Jared (Wyatt Harrison) to his grandfather's house after his mom passes away. While they are there, Jared is busy working on a book and Riley is running into trouble. After seeing something that he thinks is a dinosaur, he has to prove that what he saw was real, and then protect it from an evil scientist.

Although the CGI isn't the best, it really helps enhance the plot of the movie. The images of the dinosaurs and the eggs allow the viewers to visualize what it would be like to live amongst dinosaurs. There aren't many dinosaur movies aimed at younger children being released, so Dinosaur Cove is really refreshing. It's a clean and entertaining movie that kids can enjoy. However, although its focus is younger children, there is a deeper meaning and a thicker storyline as Jared is grieving the loss of his wife and Riley's mom. It also shows the process of moving on, and how resilience is a key part of life. This creates a part of the story that older audiences may relate to. At some points of the film, the audio track is uneven, which can be distracting. Nevertheless, Dinosaur Cove is a humorous and action packed movie that will be enjoyed by kids and families.

The message of Dinosaur Cove is that being open-minded can lead you to something amazing. If you rule something out too quickly, you could be missing out on a significant opportunity.

I rate Dinosaur Cove 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Dinosaur Cove is available now on Digital, so make sure you check it out!

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 14

Dinosaur Cove is an exhilarating and fun new film that younger children will love! It has great characters and a story that is equally fun. The dinosaurs add the perfect amount of fantasy to the story.

The storyline follows Riley (Brayden Eaton), his dad and his grandpa who have just moved to Dinosaur Cove! As soon as he arrives he finds a creature (a dinosaur) obviously. But the problem is, nobody except for his best friend, Savannah (Addilyn Houk), believes him. Little does he know there's an evil scientist that wants to capture the dinosaur. Can Riley keep his new friend safe?

Something about this film that really sticks out is the songs. I love their poetic lyrics and the melodies are great too. The scenery and cinematography is really beautiful, specifically the shots of ocean. I love the scene when the dad is driving his boat, because the water looks amazing. But by far my favorite scene is earlier in the film, when one of Riley's new friends hits a golf ball into a man's window, hands the golf club to Riley and runs away.

The message of Dinosaur Cove is that teamwork is great. The kids work together in many different situations, but it's not just the kids. The adults also help out in some circumstances. One thing to be aware of is the use of a tranquilizer gun and the fact that the kids go exploring a lot without telling their parents and, in a few cases, end up in dangerous situations as a result.

I give Dinosaur Cove 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 4 to 12. Dinosaur Cove is available now on digital platforms.

The storyline takes place in the 19th century, following the lives of some of England's elite. It focuses on the actions of a mysterious wealthy suitor, Mr. Malcolm (Sope Dirisu) who is in search of the perfect wife, and every eligible lady is trying to get in front of him. However, Mr. Malcolm is very picky, and doesn't really care when he lets women down. When the main female character Julia (Zawe Ashton) isn't enough for him and gets publicly humiliated, she doesn't back down. Instead Julia brings in her good friend Selina (Freida Pinito) to give Mr. Malcolm a taste of his own medicine. In the end, things may not turn out as planned, but when they listen to their hearts, it all works out.

Something that I really enjoyed about this movie is its comedic aspects. There are multiple jokes thrown in here and there that really lighten the mood. Julia's character has quite a strong personality, and often says things that are very funny. Even the way that she talks about other people, or things she doesn't agree with are funny. It seems that most films today are very serious, so it's great to see a strong light-hearted movie. Additionally, there's a very strong storyline that kept me interested and wanting more. There is a lot of suspense throughout the film, as well as some surprising turnouts. I could never predict what would happen next. I also love the costume design, which suits the 19th century time period. Each outfit has so much attention to detail.

The message of Mr. Malcolm's List is that in the end, love and honesty will always make things right.

I give Mr. Malcolm's List 4 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters July 1, 2022.

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

Mr. Malcolm's List is the glamorous adventure of the year! The film transports fans into the Regency era for a tale filled with romance and exquisite music.

Mr. Malcolm's List is set in 1818, where the most eligible bachelor, Mr. James Malcolm (Sope Dirisu) looks for a wife. He meets Julia Thistlewaite (Zawe Ashton) who he believes isn't worthy of his courtship because she does not meet his list of qualifications for a wife. Julia is embarrassed in society's newspaper so she plans her revenge on Mr. Malcolm. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Suzanne Allain.

This film shows how Regency era pieces have taken the world by storm. The movie is lighthearted, overflowing with gorgeous dresses, beautiful ballrooms and witty comedy. There was a short film based on Mr. Malcolm's List previously released, with several cast members returning for this feature. It's wonderful to have the entire story fleshed out, taking its time to tell the entire tale without feeling rushed. Sam Heughan reprises his role as Henry. Audiences can see that he feels more comfortable with this role, which adds to the greatness of this character. The story itself is unique and keeps viewers on the edge of their seat. With the series Bridgerton giving fans several love stories with people who are head over heels for each other, it's refreshing to have Mr. Malcolm's List be the complete opposite. A woman taking revenge on a man for embarrassing her in society is as comedic as it is powerful. The writers have given Julia such power in proving herself worthwhile and she ends up finding love under unlikely circumstances. The film gives personality and color to our ideas of what people were like in the early 1800s. Two friends spending their free time pondering on how to ruin the life of the most eligible bachelor in London, just because they think it'll be fun, is exciting and totally unpredictable. Every second of this film is compelling.

The moral of this story is to honor yourself. Julia never lets anyone degrade her. Whereas some women during this time period would have let a man embarrass her and move on, Julia gives James a taste of his own medicine. She is never upset about not meeting his requirements, but instead becomes furious that he has a list to begin with.

I give Mr. Malcolm's List 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters July 1, 2022.

Legend of Oro Arrowhead follows Jim Powell (Stephen Thompson) who returns to his small hometown after his father dies. After interacting with some of the townspeople he becomes suspicious about how his dad died and why anyone would target him. After some digging for the truth, he unearths his father's past passion for finding a Native American Arrowhead that foretells the future. However, Jim is not the only one looking for it. Will he be able to find it and avenge his father?

Legend of Oro Arrowhead is an adventurous film that reminds me of classic Indiana Jones movies. I love movies that have you asking so many questions; it adds to the mystery of the film. My favorite scenes are with Gola (Vanessa Ore). Gola is a strong female character with a stubborn personality and wit. What I found interesting is that there are a lot of learning elements about Native Americans and their history. It always makes a movie more interesting when you can take some new information. The setting of the small town feels welcoming and familiar at first then it becomes the opposite -- almost eerie and creepy once the secrets are revealed. Another compelling aspect is that the antagonists are not your typical villains. They seem like just normal people, which is brilliant in my book. The suspense in this film is unmatched; the direction left no plot holes. The cinematography is clear and has an HD effect. While I love the action in this film, the execution falls a bit short. Some of the stunts are done poorly as well as some of the special effects. This brings down the quality of the rising action. While the plot, story line and characters are great, the cinematography and stunt work fall short.

The message of Legend of Oro Arrowhead is to stay true to who you are. This film promotes some positive behavior, but it does contain violence and smoking.

I give Legend of Oro Arrowhead 4 out 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available now on Digital and DVD.

Brian and Charles' friendship has an unconventional origin. Brian (David Earl) is an isolated inventor in Wales who specializes in weird inventions. Despite his passion, his interventions often flop. Driven by depression and loneliness, Brian builds a robot using a washing machine and spare parts lying around his home. Charles is clunky yet charming. He is obsessed with cabbage, uses the dictionary to learn English, and loves socializing, dancing, and adventures.

In this film, Brian, played by David Earl, has finally invented the cure for his loneliness. What he doesn't anticipate is that Charles, played by Chris Hayward, is much more of a free spirit than he is. Despite their dance parties, pillow fights, and mutual love for cabbage, Charles deeply desires to see the world, while Charles is content with a quaint and straightforward life in Wales. One of my favorite parts of the film was watching Charles dance in a hula skirt and beg to go to Honolulu. Their competing wishes ultimately become the source of tension in their friendship. While the film centers on Brian and Charles, Louise Brealey's performance as Hazel, Brian's love interest, is worth mentioning. Their awkward yet sweet interactions between her and Brian give the film comedic relief.

Brian and Charles reminds us that sometimes "friend" is actually another word for family, and sometimes loving someone means letting them go. Brian and Charles' friendship survived heated disagreements, conflicting visions, and even a kidnapping. But, ultimately, they proved that the love would never fade no matter the distance between them.

I give Brian and Charles 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to18, plus adults. Brian and Charles releases in theaters June 17, 2022.

The story follows a young boy who has a rude awakening one morning when he discovers an unwanted intruder in his mouth - a gorilla. We quickly learn that the gorilla has invaded due to his lack of dental hygiene.

I have to commend the creator, Shelli Wilbon, for a clever storyline with a poignant message that parents and dentists can relate to. The animation is well constructed, the audio track is very clear. The voices of the boy and mom are spot on. The voice of the dentist is a bit off. Shelli Wilbon does both the mother's voice and the dentist's and her attempt at voicing the male dentist doesn't quite work well. I love her sense of humor, such as having the dentist missing several teeth. It reminds me of the shoemaker not having any shoes - in that the dentist hasn't taken care of his teeth. The backgrounds are all well made - from the home shots to the dentist's office, they all ring true. My favorite scene is when the dentist lures the gorilla out of the boy's mouth with a banana. Clever. The ending is adorable. I love the dancing gorilla!

The message is pretty straightforward - take care of your teeth. Brush them so you won't have a gorilla growing in your mouth.

Elvis is told from the point of view of Colonel Parker (Tom Hanks) who used to be Elvis's manager. He tells the story of how he met Elvis (Austin Butler) and how the singer took the world by storm. The film covers the years of Elvis's life as a young adult until his passing.

This is an incredible and exciting film. From the opening scene until the credits roll, the movie is a roller coaster of emotions. Austin's performance as the king of Rock n Roll is revolutionary. It's impossible to take your eyes off of him. He truly becomes Elvis with his mannerisms and dancing. Austin's performance is Oscar-worthy, just like the rest of the film. The movie humanizes Elvis, where audiences see him as more than just a performer. It's heartbreaking to see how this larger-than-life legend never lived the life he wanted. The film unites both Elvis fans and non-enthusiasts by showing this icon in a never-before-seen profile. Following Elvis throughout his life and witnessing his love of music made me feel as if he's been a friend of mine for years. Producer/Director/Writer, Baz Lurhmann delivers an incredible film and story here. It is completely engaging, has a perfect mix of modern music and Elvis classics, along with swapping between Elvis and the Colonel's points of view. Archival elements such as newspaper headlines and comic book art are put to good use and the film ends with a video recording of Elvis's last concert. The costumes are spectacular. The scene of Elvis's Las Vegas residency wearing his iconic white suit is beautiful since it looks like the viewers are watching a live performance. This is one movie that you should watch in theaters to capture its greatness. The music blaring; Austin's acting; and the cinematography should be experienced on the big screen.

Elvis offers several themes, but the most important one is to live the life you want to. Elvis's mother warned him of living a life to please others and that he would eventually lose himself, which is exactly what happened. Elvis never lived his life for himself and, in the end, it consumed him.

I give Elvis 5 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It premieres in theaters June 24, 2022.

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

A superstar, a revolution, and a change in not only music, but in the world. We all know Elvis Presley from his many hit songs, but who was the man behind the music? Where did he come from? Elvis, starring Austin Butler, will keep you mesmerized as you watch his life unfold, as relationships build and fall apart, and this legend gives the world the music still loved by generations, Elvis exceeded any expectations I had for this rock biopic.

Elvis shares the touching and real story of the King of Rock and Roll from the perspective of his manipulative manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks.) The story starts by revealing how the black musicians that surrounded him in his childhood homes of Mississippi and Memphis inspired him and shaped his sound. When locals start going crazy for this new talent, Parker, in need of a fresh act, goes to hear Elvis sing live at a local radio event. Seeing the potential (musical and financial), Parker begins a complex, self-serving relationship with Elvis, which drives the story forward.

The storyline of this movie is what ultimately sets it apart--instead of following a basic and predictable film plotline, Elvis shows the nonlinear, very human ups and downs of Elvis Presley's career. On the screen, I saw the true story of a man's life. Unlike other films that follow the lives of stars (Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman) Elvis centers around the relationships, and not just between Elvis and the Colonel. We get a close view of his relationships with his family and, more importantly, his fans. The love he received from the enormous crowds was his biggest motivator and director, Baz Luhrmann lets us see it. The lighting, the costumes, the pure joy on every actor's face, and the energy radiating off of the screen was almost tangible.

This film's message is best summed up in a line by B.B. King (Kelvin Harrison Jr.): "If you don't do the business, the business will do you." In other words, if you do not take control over your own life, other things and people will--a lesson Elvis might have learned if he had lived long enough.

I give Elvis 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can see Elvis in theaters June 24, 2022.

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On has a simple yet passionate plot following Marcel (Jenny Slate), a shell. Years ago, he and his grandmother, Connie (Isabella Rossellini), were the lone survivors of an unknown disaster. Now, after being discovered as one-inch shells by Dean (Dean Fleischer-Camp), his interviews are being viewed by millions of people around the world. Dean makes a documentary about Marcel: how he's made a life for himself using tennis balls to get around and by living in dollhouses. With this many people behind them, Marcel and Dean set out to find his family. MP

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is everything a great movie should be: emotional, entertaining, funny and suspenseful at times. The primary focus of the film is clearly its emotional impact. Marcel is the perfect character to capture the positive point of view on everything. He makes light of bad times and comedy out of devastation. It's no wonder he's a YouTube star! Jenny Slate is a good match for the role in portraying the well-balanced character. The comedic elements go hand in hand with the fantastic acting and entertaining storyline to create the meaningful characters and conflicts. Marcel contributes a lot to the overall entertainment of the movie. The sets, cinematography and lighting do a lot to push the film to its best. Everything matches the mood and tone, creating the perfect atmosphere for the characters. One example of this is when Marcel is hopeful, the set is lit naturally and bright.

The message of Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is to cherish family and friends, because in the blink of an eye they could be gone. The film also supports the idea that we should speak up for ourselves and support one another. Marcel the Shell with Shoes On includes many important themes that are passionately expressed throughout. This film does have scenes with fairly intense moments of sadness, but it is definitely a kid- and family-friendly film.

I give Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 4 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 6 to 18, plus adults. You can view this film in select theaters beginning June 24, 2022 and on some streaming platforms beginning June 23, 2022.

By Kyla C., Age 12, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

Marcel The Shell With Shoes On is a sweet, moving and loving journey into the life of an instantly lovable seashell named Marcel (Jenny Slate). I love how this stop-motion animated film, presented as a documentary, handles life's mysteries, dangers, grief and friendships with wisdom, grace and humor.

Marcel and his sassy grandmother Connie (Isabella Rossellini) share a big home used as an Airbnb that was once full of friends who have mysteriously disappeared. When a new guest, Dean (Dean Fleischer-Camp) arrives, he sets out to document Marcel and help discover what happened to the missing friends. Dean films the inventive and clever ways that Marcel and Connie go about their lives as shells, from gathering food, traveling about and taking care of each other. Marcel persuades Dean to share the mysterious loss of his community, which leads to an interview on 60 Minutes with Leslie Stahl. All the attention and celebrity fuss prove to be too much for the aging grandmother as she does her best to convince Marcel she is healthy. I love how Marcel takes care of Connie.

Marcel is sweet and caring with a practical approach to solving problems. He is inventive and optimistic. And he has a fuzzy pet lint named Alan! His grandmother, Connie, is at once amused and annoyed by Marcel's overprotectiveness. They share a unique bond. The stop-motion animation brings to life these characters in a wonderful, believable way. They become your friends you care about quickly. My favorite part is how Marcel travels around the big house with speed and efficiency-- in a tennis ball!

Marcel The Shell With Shoes On addresses a variety of life's challenges with gentle wisdom, quiet grace, and sly humor. Marcel and Connie learn to adjust to the mysterious disappearance of their community, a house full of friends. They persevere and seek help from Dean to help solve the mystery while dealing with the new found "celebrity" attention and the disruption to their peaceful existence. Marcel is stoic and brave in the face of loss and grateful and welcoming at the sound of emergency. We would all benefit from walking in Marcel's shoes!

I give Marcel The Shell With Shoes On 5 out of 5 star and recommend it for ages 6 to 18, plus adults. It opens in select theaters June 24, 2022.

By Madeleine H. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

Marcel The Shell With The Shoes On is a unique, yet emotional film. It creates a whole new perspective on life, while having a very intriguing, yet entertaining feel to it.

Marcel The Shell With The Shoes On follows a tiny one-inch shell, Marcel (Jenny Slate), who lives in an Airbnb with his Nana (Isabella Rossellini). When a new renter Dean (Dean Fleischer Camp) moves in, he starts a documentary series on YouTube about Marcel's life. Soon enough, Marcel finds himself gaining millions of views, and he tries to hopefully use this new gained fame to find his lost family.

Something that I really enjoyed about this film is its simplicity. To explain, the structure of the movie purely focuses on Marcel and his way of life. There are no crazy action scenes or extensive sets, yet it is still entertaining and lovely to watch. Another thing that stands out is the picture quality. Everything is very clear and, although Marcel is animated, he feels very life-like in a world filled with live humans. Marcel reminds me of a real-life moving toy, rather than an animated character. That's how realistic he is. Finally, the way that Jenny Slate conveys human emotions through voicing a small shell is really outstanding. Although he is tiny, Marcel has so many different layers, and I definitely got chills throughout the film.

The message of Marcel The Shell With The Shoes On is to always stay true to yourself, and to care for those who care for you.

I give Marcel The Shell With The Shoes On 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It release in select theaters June 24, 2021.

Lightyear follows Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear (Chris Evans) as he travels to another planet. He spends years trying to return home but clashes with robots led by Zurg (James Brolin) who is trying to steal his fuel. After he attempts to make it off the planet he realizes every time he leaves it fast forwards time. After many failed attempts he ends up 100 years into the future along with a new companion robot cat named SOX (Peter Sohn). He meets a crew of people who end up trying to help him on his mission. Can Buzz make it off this planet?

The main character, Buzz Lightyear, is from the iconic Toy Story franchise. Lightyear is joined by fellow space ranger Alisha Hawthrone (Uzo Aduba) and, eventually, her granddaughter, Izzy Hawthrone (KeKe Palmer) and, of course, Sox (Peter Sohn) the robot cat. Fans of the Toy Story films will love learning more about Buzz's missions mentioned throughout the Toy Story films, such as his relationship and battles with Zurg. My favorite character in this film is Sox, because he is funny without even trying and his human-like characteristics are even funnier. There is a scene where Buzz is having a tough time clearing his mind and going to sleep. Sox demonstrates different options to help him sleep and eventually starts making "white noises" that sound more like hissing. It is hilarious.

The biggest message throughout Lightyear is that failure happens, and we must never give up on our goals. You never know when something will actually work out for you unless you keep trying. Lightyear also gives a great lesson about working together and not being afraid to ask for help when you need it most. You can accomplish more with a team, than by yourself.

I give Lightyear 4 out 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 18. Of course, adults will love it too. Toy Story fans will love getting to know Buzz's story in this film. Lightyear travels into theaters June 17, 2022.

The storyline is about a giant tree in New York City that is being cared for by a young girl, Lucinda, and her friend. Her friend decides taking care of the tree is too much work and leaves - with all responsibility falling on Lucinda. Lucinda picks it up, on her own and is getting worn down by it until unexpectedly a group of people show up to help her.

Sweet story. I love the passion this little girl has for her tree and the actor playing her, Evelyn Berry, is just as cute as can be. Her friend is sort of a downer from the get go, although she is somewhat redeemed at the end when she returns with microphones and entices Lucinda to join her in singing about the tree. I love the music. The camerawork is well done; the audio is very clear. The only problem I have with this story is the way they are tending to the tree. For some reason, they are washing the tree's trunk. I can't fathom why they would do this and it seems like unnecessary work. I do like how complete strangers appear to help her and how, in the end, her friend returns and invites her to sing about the tree, and the others in. In response, the tree drops a whole lot of food on the ground, including a sandwich. Huh?

The message of the film is about staying true to what your purpose is and don't give up.

This film shows the effects of climate change and rising sea levels, and how it's affecting everyone, both humans and animals.

I like how the documentary is set up, showing people from various fields discuss how they are affected by climate change; each has something new to say about their experience. The camera work is very good. The films is all shot on location in Costa Rica, which is beautiful. The topics - rising sea levels and climate change - are an important thing to talk about, and are something that some people may not want to accept, or haven't acknowledged. The young director put together the film in an engaging way that is easy to follow. My favorite part is when they go to a beach at night to help preserve sea turtle eggs. They picked the eggs up to transport them somewhere safer.

The message of the film is that climate change is dangerous, and is getting way worse really fast. It will take a lot more effort to make a change.

This is a short film about a girl who is ashamed of her illness and is learning to cope with it. I really like how the sick girl, Roni (Ofir Maor) and another girl, Tamar end up embracing each other at the end and that they both embrace the hardships and the beauty of Roni's illness. The quality of the camera work is quite good. The background music is very suitable to the film's story. My favorite part is seeing Roni embrace her illness and I really enjoyed Ofir Maor's performance as Roni. When she finally admits that she has Tourette disease. It gives the audience a sense of relief.

The message of the film is about having empathy. It is a skill we should all work on, especially towards people that have illnesses. It does have a few scenes that may be disturbing for younger audiences. It shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. For example, Roni tries to use a hammer and ends up getting stuck in the bars on her balcony. At the beginning there is a scene where Roni tries to strangle another student.

The storyline of this short film is about a little slug, named Sebastian, who desperately wants to fly with his firefly buddies but has no wings. With the help of his woodland friends he makes a pair of wings out of discarded materials found in the nearby yard until he is launched into the sky by his supportive friends. The friendship and support within this group of woodland friends is wonderful. Everyone imagines being able to fly and that makes the story very appealing. The animation is really beautiful and the characters are super cute. Each character has great facial features and various body parts. I love the diverse group of insects and woodland friends. The animation is lovely. Watching the making of the wings is an interesting part. The pond background is quite beautiful. I love all the rich details of the various plants around the pond and in the neighboring yard. The theme and background music are great, especially the opening song which sets the storyline. Kudos to composers Brad Alexander and Jill Abramovitz. There is a large voiceover cast for this short film and they are all exceptionally great, especially the narrator, Marty Allen. The voice talent definitely adds to the story. Written and directed by Joni Nowak with Animation Director Moses Meringa's excellent work really bring this story to life. All of the production details are really top-notch. My favorite scenes are when the dog discovers them in the yard and when they are making Sebastian's wings.

The message of this film is that friends support each other and their dreams. Teamwork is also an important element in this short film.

The story follows a Jamaican man describing his childhood in a rural township, discussing the importance of community and family and traditions such as Boxing Day. The story is simple and yet meaningful. The narrator has a beautiful way with words and illuminates the tale of his upbringing with sweet lines like: Four rooms, six people, but we still had enough room for love. It's a story many born and brought up in other parts of the world can resonate with and holds great value for American audiences as an educational tool. The animation is simple and charming 2D. It almost seems like the film is composed of different collages made with paper, clippings, fabrics and other materials. Every "collage" has mobile components (like puttering buses, boys walking to get water, men playing cards) that keep the story moving. The animated characters seem almost hand-drawn or crafted by a child). They function well as illustrative devices. The characters are dressed in simple clothes and do not have faces, perhaps to highlight the everyman nature of the story. The backgrounds are unique and vibrant, and you can definitely tell this is a film set in the Caribbean. I especially love the background of the city, with palm trees, low buildings, and tour buses. There's a jaunty background music track featuring what I seems to be a marimba. The music certainly adds to the Caribbean or Jamaican ethos of the film. Some effects have been added in to enhance each scene, including sound effects of kids playing and horns honking. These make the film feel more real. I love the narration, specifically the speaker's choice of words and warm accent. The narrator (Norbert Thomas) is never seen on camera, but you can perfectly picture a warm, fatherly figure of him from his narration. His narration and the story combine to make the film compelling. Gregory Edwards is the director, writer and producer. He painstakingly animated and assembled the entire film, a commendable act in itself. The message of the film is how important it is to value one's community and traditions, no matter how far you may stray from your roots.

Fresh Memories is a student made documentary about two cousins, Terry and Eddie, who own their own boba tea shop, For Good Tea.

I love how the film talks about their feelings and what it means to them to sell tea. Eddie talks about his favorite memories with customers. The camera quality is great. I like the blend of archival footage, showing the boys in their youth, along with shots of their current day life. The background music is very catchy and fits the theme of the documentary. My favorite part of the film is when one of the cousins reminisces about when an old man told him that the tea they made reminded him of his grandmother's tea, and that made him happy. This is such a charming film about two people whose mission is simple and straightforward and how rewarding their work is for them both.

The message of the film is that hard work pays off.

This student produced documentary tells the story behind The Bryan Museum in Galveston, Texas. Built from a former orphanage, its mission is to educate students about the "high adventure" of Texas history.

Wonderful camera and audio work makes this a pleasure to watch. I also love seeing how much these people love and care for their state of Texas. The interviews with the museum's found and director are honestly inspiring and it's clear that they are passionate about the museum's mission. The background music definitely fits the story. I enjoyed the cut aways to the young people participating at museum events and the archival footage. The only drawback that I have to accepting this is that I perceive its audience to be somewhat limited. However, as the founder says at the end, it's about people seeking freedom. And that is a universal message.

The message of the film is to inspire people to preserve their history, in whatever shape they can.

The storyline follows a girl and the devastating impact of pesticides on the land where she and her grandmother live. It starts out when the girl is a child at her grandmother's house and the plants are just beginning to be impacted by the pesticides. It ends with the same girl as an adult visiting the house.

I like the strong environmental message that is illustrated in this film. While the story is sad, the ending is upbeat in showing that there is hope for the future. The animated characters are very "real" in how they express human emotions by their expressions and body language. The animation is beautifully executed. The setting of the film is rural Brazil, which is easily identifiable based on the environmental history of the area. There are only a few spoken lines in the film. They are in Portuguese with English subtitles. The selection of the music provides an appropriate amount of emotion to the film. My favorite part is the use of a bumblebee to tie the story together. It is present when the child is young and when she returns to her grandmother's house as an adult. It serves as a symbol of hope.

The message is that, while the environment is being damaged by the use of pesticides, there is still some hope left in the world.

I give Nonna 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The environmental message is very compelling and reminds us of what we can lose if we do not take care of our world.

The story follow a hunter who encounters a deer in the wild, chases it into a mysterious cave where other deer are being held captive and an evil demon appear.

The animation of this film has almost an anime sense to it. It has a very imaginative storyline, and a purpose - to teach us about human trafficking. The characters all have very strong personalities in this non-narrative film. Things are not what they initially appear to be. Once the hunter slays the demon in the cave, the captive animals become something else. Seriously, this is one very original film. In less than 5 minutes, it tells a very complex story that I watched multiple times.

The message of the story is protecting those that are weaker than we are - whether animal or human.

This student film features a tween, Samantha Pickett, describing different aspects of life while being in quarantine. This includes humorous, obvious and unapparent details.

This short film has the same lyrics repeated throughout, with a couple lines that change each time the chorus is repeated. However, the repeated lyrics are meaningful and impactful. The cinematography is primarily one shot, of a medium shot of the girl singing. We do also see her hands on the piano at times, which shows us that she is playing the piano herself. Her face is well lit and everything in the shot feels very natural. The location is a simple, neutral background that fits the tone of the song and the lyrics. The piano music is great. It fits very well with the lyrics. The sole character is a young girl singing about her life in quarantine. Her personality stands out and adds a personal touch to the music. The camerawork is very well done and her face is well lit. It seems natural; she doesn't appear overly covered in makeup or inappropriate attire. My favorite part of the film is the comedic lyrics. They are so relatable and so funny.

The message of this film is that everyone was going through similar things during quarantine. If we can be positive and support each other whenever possible, the world could be a lot better.

I give Quarantween Music Video 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It's a quick, fun watch that will make kids and families laugh!

The storyline follows a grandfather and his granddaughter who ride to the beach on their bicycles to go floundering (fishing) and share some rough times as well as some bonding.

The storyline is a bit confusing to follow, though once you understand it, it warms your heart. The camerawork is well done, although some scenes are quite dark and it's difficult to see the details. The background music is quite sparingly used, but when it's there, it definitely helps support the mood of the film. The two characters - the grandfather and his granddaughter reminisce about various moments and phases of their lives together and, in the end, become closer. When night slowly changes to day their relationship becomes testy for a bit, then Grandpa falls off his bike and it makes the two of them reexamine who they are for one another. I love their reconciliation at the ending as they bicycle into the horizon, plus the ending song is lovely. It's heartwarming and real.

Certainly the story structure is here as are the prerequisite characters. The family characters are true and loving, but appropriately lacking in faith. The protagonist, Kristynka, is innocent and bravely accepts the challenges of both her real and imaginative worlds. And most importantly, she leads us to believe that her 'sight' is true. And, of course, the antagonist is appropriately bad.

The dialog must serve both the character and the story. For the most part, these characters are well spoken but it sometimes misses the opportunity to add emotional depth to a character or to heighten conflict. Overall, the bones of the story are present but the meat - the fear, the emotion, the enchantment are understated.

The story follows Tammy, a high school student who is happy and popular. She starts receiving hurtful messages on her cell phone and computer. Friends begin avoiding her and make fun of her at school. She becomes depressed and considers harming herself. Fortunately, she tells her dad and he becomes her advocate.

In real life, kids can be cruel or mean. I felt the film didn't quite go far enough. For example, simply putting gum on the back of the girl's chair in class seems pretty tame. I feel that it missed the opportunity to highlight the gossiping and hurtful things that kids experience. The cyber messages were more realistic. I definitely like the resolution at the end, with Rita, who was the initial instigator. However, there isn't much of an apology from her, which is disappointing. In terms of production, the film is well made. The camera work is pretty good, although the lighting has some issues, especially in the classroom scenes when the windows let in a lot of light. The underwater shots are especially good, although I found the potential of the girl taking her own life quite upsetting. The background music works well and is not overshadowing. The ensemble of people who worked on this are to be commended. My favorite scenes are the opening one, where students are admiring Tammy's artwork and the concluding scene when Tammy stands up for herself in the principal's office.

The message is that you are not alone and you can find help if you find yourself in a bullying situation.

The storyline follows a child finding a way to protect a miniature forest village in a storm.

I like the way you are led through the story, which allows you to meet the characters and determine who they are for yourself. The story has two parallel contexts - one in which we see the boy's concern for the tiny village and one in which the boy's concern is for his father. This helps the viewer get a grasp on what the boy may be thinking or the reason for his actions.

The filming is very well done - nice and clear inside or outside shots. The close-ups of the tiny village give the impression that there may be more behind the little houses or boats than we can see. The outside shots define the context of the location nicely along with the weather, which is central to the story. The locations of the lovely forest, the water and the secure house all help define the context for the viewer. We see the wet and damp forest and the warmth and security inside the house. The background music and sound effects help build intrigue and the sense of adventure alongside triumph and danger. The little boats and miniature houses are really well done - not too overly intricate, but just the right level to allow the viewer to decide if they think little people are part of this story or not. The main character is the boy Toby (Izyan MacIntyre) who plays the role very well - showing the concerns and thoughts of his character as we move through the story. Whoever built the little props for the boats and houses is to be commended; they were so intriguing and cleverly created. My favorite shot is the final view of the little houses, with one slightly damaged by the storm. You can decide if there are little people living within and, if so, will they be able to fix the damage, the final outcome is yours to decide.

The message of the film is to think of others and see where you can help. Note that it does show kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. The boy does go into the woods without telling his guardians but this is entirely within the realms of the story because he knows about the little houses existing in the woods next to his home. There is also acknowledgment of death with a dead bird shown and mentioned in a news story.

The storyline follows three friends who get together to play a video game, each selecting an avatar that suits their personality. When the game gets underway, they seem to be living through their avatar and it begs the question of how that will change their real live relationship with one another.

The animation is pretty simple 2D with bright images when the plays are engaged in the game and black, white and pink when they are in "real life." The idea in the story is about how gamers experience life with others when they are playing a game and how relations that take place there may flow over into their real life. We see them collaborating during the game to help each other out, and then, we observe them later (in real live) discussing it. It's an interesting idea, but I'm not sure that it's fully realized. However, I do find it entertaining. I'm curious as to the reaction to it by gamers.

The message is about relationship flow over from gaming friends to real life friends.

I give this 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

This is wonderfully shot, beautiful acted. Kudos to Ben Willis-Teff for creating a wonderful film.

This is a documentary about the correlation between social media, mental health and eating disorders.

I really liked seeing the interviews with experts who address the relationship between the pandemic and mental health, in particular and how it contributed to eating disorders. The camera work is quite good; I especially enjoyed the close-ups of the interviews. The speakers are very honest about their experiences and the experts give background information about the causes of eating disorders. My favorite part is how, throughout the documentary, we get information about this disease as well as where to go to get help.

The film's message is that eating disorders are related to mental health and that recovery from it is possible.