Description - Charlie is 10 years old and diagnosed with Asperger's. He is proud of his diagnosis but sometimes he wishes he could be more like the other boys in his class. Feeling different makes him feel left out at times. Because of his Asperger's Charlie struggles with team sports. But he has found two things he loves to do, surfing and dancing. We follow Charlie through ups and downs at this years surf camp. Freom Norway, in English, filmed in Ireland.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really liked the documentary Charlie Surfer because it shows that you can accomplish anything, no matter the conditions, when you put your mind to it. Charlie was diagnosed with autism, but leads a very normal life. He has a goal to be able to floss while surfing before his summer camp ends. He tries over and over again and never gives up, despite his many failures. Charlie is a ten-year-old boy with Asperger's syndrome. He attends a summer camp for surfing and has an objective to floss while on the surf board. Charlie practices many times and fails many times, but he pushes through. Charlie looks on the bright side of things and tries to forget about the bad.
I like seeing the encouragement his family provides to Charlie and how his little sisters are right by his side. The scenes when Charlie is surfing are very impressive. I also loves how the camera sinks into the ocean when Charlie falls because it is like the viewer sinks with him. I love the beach location; it is super beautiful and the whole short film wraps around Charlie learning to surf in the ocean. The background music in this short film helps put a smile on your face as you watch Charlie grow at surfing. The director, Pia Str�mme, really captures Charlie and his family well. She not only targets Charlie at surf camp, but also reveals some of his life at home with his family. My favorite part of this film is when one of Charlie's surfer instructors tells him to focus on the fun of surfing and not the pain of when you get hurt.
The message of the film is to never give up, no matter how many times you fall.
I give Charlie Surfer 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 15, plus adults. This short film gives a really important message and is inspiring. Reviewed by Winter F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - really liked the documentary Charlie Surfer because it shows that you can accomplish anything, no matter the conditions, when you put your mind to it. Charlie was diagnosed with autism, but leads a very normal life. He has a goal to be able to floss while surfing before his summer camp ends. He tries over and over again and never gives up, despite his many failures.
Charlie is a ten-year-old boy with Asperger's syndrome. He attends a summer camp for surfing and has an objective to floss while on the surf board. Charlie practices many times and fails many times, but he pushes through. Charlie looks on the bright side of things and tries to forget about the bad.
I like seeing the encouragement his family provides to Charlie and how his little sisters are right by his side. The scenes when Charlie is surfing are very impressive. I also loves how the camera sinks into the ocean when Charlie falls because it is like the viewer sinks with him. I love the beach location; it is super beautiful and the whole short film wraps around Charlie learning to surf in the ocean. The background music in this short film helps put a smile on your face as you watch Charlie grow at surfing. The director, Pia Str�mme, really captures Charlie and his family well. She not only targets Charlie at surf camp, but also reveals some of his life at home with his family. My favorite part of this film is when one of Charlie's surfer instructors tells him to focus on the fun of surfing and not the pain of when you get hurt.
The message of the film is to never give up, no matter how many times you fall.
I give Charlie Surfer 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 15, plus adults. This short film gives a really important message and is inspiring. Reviewed by Winter F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
Juror Recommended Age: 8-15
Suggested Retail Price: $
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KATE AND AVA - AIKO HILKINGER
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 5-12
Description - Two young girls solve problems created by magical creatures only they can see
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Kate and Ava is an adventure/fantasy. It is a journey into learning how to cope, learn from one another and listen. It is well written. Author introduces reader to strong characters and their development lends to future episode. Author has a strong visual sense of locations, sets, color and language. She uses a solid mix of humor with wisdom; age old wisdom of good battling evil. The final comment by the younger Kate that 'the coolest part...we actually found a way to help people. And Creatures too' indicates more episode of lessons and adventure as these two clever girls and their pink bunny are called back into the other worldly forest to solve problems which exist no matter the realm. Reviewed by Juror #11. KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kate and Ava is an adventure/fantasy. It is a journey into learning how to cope, learn from one another and listen. It is well written. Author introduces reader to strong characters and their development lends to future episode. Author has a strong visual sense of locations, sets, color and language. She uses a solid mix of humor with wisdom; age old wisdom of good battling evil. The final comment by the younger Kate that 'the coolest part...we actually found a way to help people. And Creatures too' indicates more episode of lessons and adventure as these two clever girls and their pink bunny are called back into the other worldly forest to solve problems which exist no matter the realm. Reviewed by Juror #11. KIDS FIRST!
Juror Recommended Age: 5-112
Suggested Retail Price: $
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QUIET MOUSE - JOHN DICKSON
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 8-12
Description - With the help of his loyal but mischievous best friend, an introspective and sensitive nine-year-old with selective mutism struggles to find his voice in a world where he is constantly misunderstood and overlooked.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Quiet Mouse has a lot of potential as a series. It is engaging and the characters likeable. Even more than that, it shows how students with special needs can be treated at home and at school. It is east to understand and relate to and has conflict and resolution. There are some likable characters and some not-so-likable characters, but they all fit a purpose in the story. I recommend this for ages 8 through 12, but it could easily appeal to kids slightly younger or older. I also like how the dialogue fits the characters and I enjoyed reading it. Reviewed by KIDS FIRST! juror #12.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Quiet Mouse has a lot of potential as a series. It is engaging and the characters likeable. Even more than that, it shows how students with special needs can be treated at home and at school. It is east to understand and relate to and has conflict and resolution. There are some likable characters and some not-so-likable characters, but they all fit a purpose in the story. I recommend this for ages 8 through 12, but it could easily appeal to kids slightly younger or older. I also like how the dialogue fits the characters and I enjoyed reading it. Reviewed by KIDS FIRST! juror #12.
Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
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PIRATE AND A PRINCESS, A - MARK KELLY
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 8-18
Description - While evading bloodthirsty rivals, an Irish pirate captain with a multinational pirate crew rescue a shipwrecked maiden, only to find she's Spanish royalty with deadly political enemies.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This screenplay is entertaining and engaging. I like how well it flows from beginning to ending and that the characters are solid and well developed. The main benefit is entertainment and it is loaded with action, drama and a subtle romance. The dialogue is also a strong aspect and it fits well with the theme. I can picture this one on a big screen with some amazing captivating ocean scenes. I give this 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10-18. Reviewed by Juror #11
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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WINTER WOLVES, THE - MARK KELLY
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 10-18
Description - A pack of wolves tell their cubs about their adventurous and sometimes tragic family story, teaching them lessons about life, family and love.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Congratulations! Accepted. This screenplay has a great story line and many strengths, including excellent character development, believable dialogue and a great theme. It flows well from the beginning to ending. I especially like that the ending does not leave the viewer with any unanswered questions. It is entertaining and also teaches lessons about teamwork and friendship. I would love to see this on a big screen as a family film and I give it 4 out of 5 stars. Reviewed by KIDS FIRST! reviewer #11.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 10-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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STRONG SURVIVE, THE - RICHARD BROOKS
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 10-18
Description - After the sudden death of their mother, a 12-year-old boy and his sister have to move in with their estranged father and readjust to their new life.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Strong Survive has an excellent storyline, concept and believable characters. There are many strengths and few weaknesses, other than the topic itself, which is heavy. It deals with delicate issues such as addiction and death, yet approaches them in a realistic way that is truthful and engaging. The story flow well and even the minor characters play an important role in the story. It is engaging and also teaches important lessons. It also enhances an older child's understanding of the world. I recommend The Strong Survive for ages 10 through 18, plus adults. Reviewed by KIDS FIRST! Juror #10.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 10-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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EL CAPITAN & TOBY: THE RESCUE - RAIN STORY
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 5-18
Description - A super-smooth Chihuahua finds an unlikely friendship with a clumsy Cocker Spaniel who saves him from an animal shelter.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I like this screenplay for two reasons. The first is that it teaches that a dog or pet is not a temporary pet and that animals need to be given a fair chance. The second that it is entertaining, especially the squirrel characters. I love how they help save the day at the end. Although the theme isn't completely original, it has a lot of originality. It flows well and the conflict is resolved in a logical fashion. I give this screenplay 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Juror #11.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 5-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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JUVENILE DREAMERS, THE - JUSTIN FOREMAN
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 5-18
Description - Sometimes the dreams of our parents are passed down through generations in peculiar ways.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This script is refreshing and entertaining. I like that it is fun but also has a wonderful message for children to use their imagination and not give up on their dreams. I also like that the ending is not what I was expecting and that makes it refreshing. I recommend this for ages 5 though 18, plus adults and it 4 out of 5 stars. Nicely written! Well paced.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 5-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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VELCRO - JASON CHERTOFF
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 13-18
Description - It's 2030, a decade after a novel virus killed millions of Americans. Much like after any crisis, students are learning about the past in order to prepare for the future. Under the tutelage of fourth grade teacher Fritz Jackal an important lesson is being imparted to young minds about the downfall brought about by ignorance and the need to question authority.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This screenplay is relevant to current times, especially with the pandemic and the President we currently have in the USA. Although, the President in this screenplay has a different name, there are similarities. The characters are a real strength and the flow and pace are another. It does not drag and all conflicts are resolved. It is entertaining, but the biggest benefit is the message that the younger generation can make a stand and make a difference. This really shines throughout the screenplay. I give this 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 13 through 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Juror #11
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments
Juror Recommended Age: 13-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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BILLTOWN - KENNETH R. FRANK
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 8-18
Description - After his mother's death leads him and his father to move from New York City to Williamsport, PA, Gus O'Malley finds himself in the middle of an unlikely championship run that brings the host city's team to the finals of the Little League World Series.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I enjoyed this screenplay, even though I was a bit skeptical when the little league baseball theme was introduced. But, I was pleasantly surprise and found it to be much more than just entertaining. The characters are well developed and the dialogue is real and east to relate to. There is conflict between the Dad and his 12-year-old son, although it is subtle and it is resolved at the end. I also like the lesson about teamwork. The story flows easily and it is appropriate for ages 8 through 18 and even adults could learn something from it. I give Billtown 4 out of 5 stars. Reviewed by Juror #9.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed this screenplay, even though I was a bit skeptical when the little league baseball theme was introduced. But, I was pleasantly surprise and found it to be much more than just entertaining. The characters are well developed and the dialogue is real and east to relate to. There is conflict between the Dad and his 12-year-old son, although it is subtle and it is resolved at the end. I also like the lesson about teamwork. The story flows easily and it is appropriate for ages 8 through 18 and even adults could learn something from it. I give Billtown 4 out of 5 stars. Reviewed by Juror #9.
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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MESTENGO - THERESA ANNE CAREY
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 8-18
Description - Conscripted to serve as a stable boy on a Spanish galleon bound for America, a young orphan's life is forever changed when he befriends a wild Mustang and they must join forces to survive in this high-seas adventure based on the true origins of the wild mustangs of the American Southwest.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Wonderful story, beautiful told. Antonio is the hero of this tale, aided by the stallion Mestengo. This would make a simply wonderful film as it is filled with adventure, from the opening scene to the end. From the beginning with a young man in a Catholic orphanage who just doesn't seem to fit in and is bartered off to a ship sailing to the New World. The visuals are well described. The dialogue quite intense and likely. The pace excellent. I give this 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Julie S., KIDS FIRST! Juror.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wonderful story, beautiful told. Antonio is the hero of this tale, aided by the stallion Mestengo. This would make a simply wonderful film as it is filled with adventure, from the opening scene to the end. From the beginning with a young man in a Catholic orphanage who just doesn't seem to fit in and is bartered off to a ship sailing to the New World. The visuals are well described. The dialogue quite intense and likely. The pace excellent. I give this 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Julie S., KIDS FIRST! Juror.
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
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MOSES' PRAYER FOR EASTER, A - ROBERT HARMON
Series: SCREENPLAY, AGES 8-16
Description - On Easter Weekend, two girls pray "A Moses Prayer" for God to change their Dad's heart and let their family go to church on Sunday.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I give this 3.5 stars out of 5. At first, I believed this was purely entertaining and I really liked the characters. As the story unfolds I discovered that there are subtle lessons about having morals, faith and putting family first. The characters and dialogue are strengths and I can imagine it produced, playing on the big screen, although it would do best around the Easter holiday. It flows well and the content is accurate. I also really like how it ends. I recommend this for ages 8 through 15, and perhaps older.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I give this 3.5 stars out of 5. At first, I believed this was purely entertaining and I really liked the characters. As the story unfolds I discovered that there are subtle lessons about having morals, faith and putting family first. The characters and dialogue are strengths and I can imagine it produced, playing on the big screen, although it would do best around the Easter holiday. It flows well and the content is accurate. I also really like how it ends. I recommend this for ages 8 through 15, and perhaps older.
Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
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