Watch Kids' Reviews of
SUNNY

I enjoyed Sunny because of its lighthearted tone. Unlike many films today that require intense focus, this short allows audiences to easily follow along and appreciate the story. The plot follows an insecure young girl named Avery (Penelope Trejo) who is celebrating her birthday. During a game of hide-and-seek, Avery and her friends discover a magical genie named Sunny (Jane Anderson). Together, they help the genie prove she can behave before she is trapped inside her lamp for good.

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.

By Maica N., KIDS FIRST!

I enjoyed Sunny because of its lighthearted tone. Unlike many films today that require intense focus, this short allows audiences to easily follow along and appreciate the story. The plot follows an insecure young girl named Avery (Penelope Trejo) who is celebrating her birthday. During a game of hide-and-seek, Avery and her friends discover a magical genie named Sunny (Jane Anderson). Together, they help the genie prove she can behave before she is trapped inside her lamp for good.

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.

By Maica N., KIDS FIRST!

At a rural birthday party, a group of girls discover a genie in a barn and must help her prove she can behave before she's trapped again, while supporting their friend Avery.