Description - High school punk rocker Kate and her ragtag group of friends, whom she calls a band, are competing in their local talent show. But Lewis, the self-proclaimed "semi-professional concerto opera singer" and Kate's arch nemesis, will stop at nothing to embarrass her and ruin their performance.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Rock Out is an extremely entertaining and visually appealing film that had me hooked from the very start. From the cinematography, acting, music and story, every part of the film is well executed. This short film made by a high school student follows Kate (Ana Ramos) and her punk rock band, Chaz (Eli Zimmerman), Parker (Peter Hassell), and Robbie (Caden Harvey) as they prepare to compete in the local talent show. However, things get more complicated when Kate's arch nemesis, Lewis (Bek Barthelman), a self-proclaimed opera singer, vows to embarrass her by exposing a horrible photo of her to the whole school if she loses. With the help of her band Kate works her hardest to be perfect for their act.The story is very relatable, helped by the realistic characters. All of them are believably written, especially Kate and Lewis's rivalry. The story is also easy to follow, with every motive being clear and Kate's want to do good being understandable. The camera work hooked me from the very start, the way it shows the lights slowly turning on and the stage being set is breathtaking and very high quality. Throughout the film there are many other examples, such as when Lewis first walks on stage for his performance. Every actor does really well, but especially Ana Ramos as Kate. She is so good at showing Kate's emotions. The costumes are great and help emphasize the contrast between Kate's rock band and Lewis's classical singing style. While Kate and her band's clothes are more rough and less formal, Lewis wears a nice suit, emphasizing their differences. The film is set at a school in the present day, mainly on stage and in a rehearsal room. The auditorium they film in is beautiful, and also helps set up important plot points for the ending. Music is very important in this film as both leads' passion is in music and again, we see the different styles of music between Lewis and Kate. Lewis's song is gorgeous and his vocals are unbelievable, while Kate's song is incredibly catchy and shows off her character wonderfully. The cinematography stands out from the performance shots to the stage in general. My favorite part is Kate and her band's performance, as not only is their song catchy but it also helps complete her story arc in a wonderful way.
The film's message is to not let others destroy your confidence, and being yourself will bring others to you.
I give Rock Out 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Rock Out is an extremely entertaining and visually appealing film that had me hooked from the very start. From the cinematography, acting, music and story, every part of the film is well executed. This short film made by a high school student follows Kate (Ana Ramos) and her punk rock band, Chaz (Eli Zimmerman), Parker (Peter Hassell), and Robbie (Caden Harvey) as they prepare to compete in the local talent show. However, things get more complicated when Kate's arch nemesis, Lewis (Bek Barthelman), a self-proclaimed opera singer, vows to embarrass her by exposing a horrible photo of her to the whole school if she loses. With the help of her band Kate works her hardest to be perfect for their act.
The story is very relatable, helped by the realistic characters. All of them are believably written, especially Kate and Lewis's rivalry. The story is also easy to follow, with every motive being clear and Kate's want to do good being understandable. The camera work hooked me from the very start, the way it shows the lights slowly turning on and the stage being set is breathtaking and very high quality. Throughout the film there are many other examples, such as when Lewis first walks on stage for his performance. Every actor does really well, but especially Ana Ramos as Kate. She is so good at showing Kate's emotions. The costumes are great and help emphasize the contrast between Kate's rock band and Lewis's classical singing style. While Kate and her band's clothes are more rough and less formal, Lewis wears a nice suit, emphasizing their differences. The film is set at a school in the present day, mainly on stage and in a rehearsal room. The auditorium they film in is beautiful, and also helps set up important plot points for the ending. Music is very important in this film as both leads' passion is in music and again, we see the different styles of music between Lewis and Kate. Lewis's song is gorgeous and his vocals are unbelievable, while Kate's song is incredibly catchy and shows off her character wonderfully. The cinematography stands out from the performance shots to the stage in general. My favorite part is Kate and her band's performance, as not only is their song catchy but it also helps complete her story arc in a wonderful way.
The film's message is to not let others destroy your confidence, and being yourself will bring others to you.
I give Rock Out 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 12 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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TWENTH YEARS AWAY - OMYAA TREHAN
Series: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 12-18
Description - Every year, millions leave home seeking a better life, carrying burdens far beyond what can be named. This film follows Rama, who left Nepal over twenty years ago to build a future for her three daughters. What was meant to be a temporary journey became a life in the margins of a foreign city, shaped by sacrifice and quiet determination. Through Rama's story, the film examines both the hidden costs of migration--years seen through phone screens and versions of oneself left behind--and what is forged in return: resilience, independence, and an enduring strength born of necessity. From India. Dialogue in English and Hindi, with English subtitles as needed.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Twenty Years Away is an insightful, empathetic documentary that explores the personal sacrifices and hidden costs of migration. Created by 16-year-old student filmmaker Omyaa Trehan, the film follows Rama, who left Nepal over two years ago to build a better life for her three daughters. What was intended as a temporary move became a life shaped by distance, self-reliance, and altered family dynamics.The film develops chronologically with excellent camera work, clear audio, and beautiful shots of Rama's home village. Trehan's direction, combined with her thoughtful narration, adds depth to Rama's engaging story. Together, they offer a moving look at how cross-border living strains relationships while reshaping identity and independence.
The film's message is that while migration requires loss and sacrifice, being open to change can unlock unexpected growth and new opportunities.
I give Twenty Years Away 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Twenty Years Away is an insightful, empathetic documentary that explores the personal sacrifices and hidden costs of migration. Created by 16-year-old student filmmaker Omyaa Trehan, the film follows Rama, who left Nepal over two years ago to build a better life for her three daughters. What was intended as a temporary move became a life shaped by distance, self-reliance, and altered family dynamics.
The film develops chronologically with excellent camera work, clear audio, and beautiful shots of Rama's home village. Trehan's direction, combined with her thoughtful narration, adds depth to Rama's engaging story. Together, they offer a moving look at how cross-border living strains relationships while reshaping identity and independence.
The film's message is that while migration requires loss and sacrifice, being open to change can unlock unexpected growth and new opportunities.
I give Twenty Years Away 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 9 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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YOUR PEPPERMINTED SON - DONGMYEONG KIM
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 12 TO 18
Description - A college boy declares war on his father, the school dean, for refusing to recognize Peppermint Mocha as real coffee.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Your Pepperminted Son is a creative and heartwarming mini-musical created by college students. The story centers on Isaac Flatwhite, who declares war on his coffee-obsessed father and school dean, Abraham, when he refuses to recognize Isaac's favorite drink--Peppermint Mocha--as real coffee. Beneath the fun premise lies a relatable deeper story about family rift and reconciliation.The film shines visually and musically, blending realistic campus scenes with whimsical, scrapbook-style fantasy sequences that reflect Isaac's daydreams. Outstanding camera work, thoughtful costuming, and authentic performances from leads Sebastian Son and James Bacon make the father-son tension and ultimate truce feel genuinely moving. The standout original song, "Cool and Sweet," ties the performances together flawlessly.
The film's message is that family won't always see eye to eye, and true resolution comes from accepting your differences.
I give Your Pepperminted Son 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Your Pepperminted Son is a creative and heartwarming mini-musical created by college students. The story centers on Isaac Flatwhite, who declares war on his coffee-obsessed father and school dean, Abraham, when he refuses to recognize Isaac's favorite drink--Peppermint Mocha--as real coffee. Beneath the fun premise lies a relatable deeper story about family rift and reconciliation.
The film shines visually and musically, blending realistic campus scenes with whimsical, scrapbook-style fantasy sequences that reflect Isaac's daydreams. Outstanding camera work, thoughtful costuming, and authentic performances from leads Sebastian Son and James Bacon make the father-son tension and ultimate truce feel genuinely moving. The standout original song, "Cool and Sweet," ties the performances together flawlessly.
The film's message is that family won't always see eye to eye, and true resolution comes from accepting your differences.
I give Your Pepperminted Son 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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WHERE WE SIT TOGETHER - PUBLIC TELEVISION SERVICE, TAIWAN
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Description - In a cramped home with no dining table, ten-year-old Fang discovers warmth and belonging for the first time at a friend's birthday meal. That simple moment sparks a quiet revolution -- one that begins with a table, and a child's will to reshape home.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Where We Sit Together, directed by Taiwanese student filmmaker Zong Hua (Joshua) Yang, is a cute, deeply relatable short film about the importance of family bonding. The story follows Fang Jia-Yu, a young girl tired of her family's distant, busy household. After seeing the warmth and shared meals at a friend's house, she takes matters into her own hands to throw her mother the ultimate birthday party and spark a change in her own home.Shot with a realistic, documentary-like style, the film immerses viewers directly into everyday Taiwanese life. Jhih-Ciang Hu delivers a flawless, natural performance as Fang Jia-Yu--especially in the heartwarming scenes where she shops and cooks all on her own. The absence of background music and reliance on natural environmental sounds further enhances the story's authentic vibe. The film builds to a joyful, moving ending that highlights how even a child can inspire positive change.
The film's message reminds us to prioritize spending time with loved ones and that age is no barrier to making a difference.
I give Where We Sit Together 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Where We Sit Together, directed by Taiwanese student filmmaker Zong Hua (Joshua) Yang, is a cute, deeply relatable short film about the importance of family bonding. The story follows Fang Jia-Yu, a young girl tired of her family's distant, busy household. After seeing the warmth and shared meals at a friend's house, she takes matters into her own hands to throw her mother the ultimate birthday party and spark a change in her own home.
Shot with a realistic, documentary-like style, the film immerses viewers directly into everyday Taiwanese life. Jhih-Ciang Hu delivers a flawless, natural performance as Fang Jia-Yu--especially in the heartwarming scenes where she shops and cooks all on her own. The absence of background music and reliance on natural environmental sounds further enhances the story's authentic vibe. The film builds to a joyful, moving ending that highlights how even a child can inspire positive change.
The film's message reminds us to prioritize spending time with loved ones and that age is no barrier to making a difference.
I give Where We Sit Together 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 24 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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HIDDEN DIMENSION, THE - PHILIP HAIN
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Description - The Hidden Dimension is a suspenseful mystery short following a group of school children who discover a portal inside their school, leading to a dark parallel world. As they search for a way home, they uncover traces of a missing girl and long-buried secrets. Blending atmospheric storytelling with themes of friendship, fear, and memory, the film brings Philip Hain's school-based mystery trilogy to a thrilling conclusion.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Hidden Dimension is an exciting, suspenseful Austrian short film full of fun special effects. The final installment in Philip Hain's trilogy follows a group of students who discover a hidden portal in their school, transporting them to a dark alternate world as they search for a way home.The film flows well and builds strong tension, though the ending gets a bit confusing when the kids randomly flee their classrooms. The cinematography and special effects shine--particularly the flawless, flaming portal transitions and the black-and-white visual contrast of the parallel dimension. Strong background music gives the short a blockbuster feel, while a standout performance from Katerina brings a calm, fearless balance to the surprised young cast.
The film's message is that working together as a team can help solve any problem.
I give The Hidden Dimension 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Hidden Dimension is an exciting, suspenseful Austrian short film full of fun special effects. The final installment in Philip Hain's trilogy follows a group of students who discover a hidden portal in their school, transporting them to a dark alternate world as they search for a way home.
The film flows well and builds strong tension, though the ending gets a bit confusing when the kids randomly flee their classrooms. The cinematography and special effects shine--particularly the flawless, flaming portal transitions and the black-and-white visual contrast of the parallel dimension. Strong background music gives the short a blockbuster feel, while a standout performance from Katerina brings a calm, fearless balance to the surprised young cast.
The film's message is that working together as a team can help solve any problem.
I give The Hidden Dimension 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 17 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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ELITE - GABRIELA UWEIS
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-18
Description - Fifteen-year-old elite gymnast Dagmar dreams of making the national team, but a terrifying vault fall leaves her with a crippling mental block. Struggling to define herself outside the sport, her relentless push for perfection only strips away the joy of competing. Through the carefree spirit of her eight-year-old sister, Nora, Dagmar learns to let go of fear and rediscover her passion. Heading into her final national team selection, she steps up not just as a stronger athlete, but as her true self.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Elite is an engaging, relatable short film about motivation, perseverance, and overcoming self-doubt. The story follows fifteen-year-old Dagmar, whose dream of making the Danish national gymnastics team is derailed when a mid-air hesitation on the vault shatters her confidence and identity. Through time spent with her younger sister, she rediscovers her courage and learns to let go of fear.The production is well-executed with strong camera work, editing, and authentic gymnastics performances. Up-close shots bring viewers into the action, while inventive sound design--like thunderous music reflecting Dagmar's insecurity and whispering voices during her inner struggles--deepens the emotional impact. A standout scene is the sweet, stress-relieving pillow fight and trampoline chat between Dagmar and her sister, Nora.
Ultimately, the film delivers a powerful message: the only thing stopping you from achieving success is yourself.
I give Elite 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Yun L., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Elite is an engaging, relatable short film about motivation, perseverance, and overcoming self-doubt. The story follows fifteen-year-old Dagmar, whose dream of making the Danish national gymnastics team is derailed when a mid-air hesitation on the vault shatters her confidence and identity. Through time spent with her younger sister, she rediscovers her courage and learns to let go of fear.
The production is well-executed with strong camera work, editing, and authentic gymnastics performances. Up-close shots bring viewers into the action, while inventive sound design--like thunderous music reflecting Dagmar's insecurity and whispering voices during her inner struggles--deepens the emotional impact. A standout scene is the sweet, stress-relieving pillow fight and trampoline chat between Dagmar and her sister, Nora.
Ultimately, the film delivers a powerful message: the only thing stopping you from achieving success is yourself.
I give Elite 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Yun L., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 20 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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FROGS AND FEATHERS - GABRIELA UWEIS
Series: FOREIGN DOCUMENTARY SHORT, AGES 5-12
Description - Anna (10) spends her first birthday since her father's death by the lake, caring for frogs to feel close to his memory. Disturbed by dead frogs and gathering crows, she brings a live frog home, clashing with her mother, who urges her to accept nature's cycle. Recalling her father's words, Anna kisses the frog, magically transforming it into a silent boy. Together, they return to the lake to build a scarecrow to protect the frogs from the crows. But as her fantasy begins to unravel, Anna must choose between holding on to the past or finally letting go. From Denmark; dialogue in Danish with English subtitles
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Frogs and Feathers is a beautiful, deeply moving Danish short film about grief, magic, and moving forward. On her birthday, ten-year-old Anna retreats to the lake--where she used to care for frogs with her late father--to protect a frog from predatory crows. When her grieving mother asks her to return it, Anna retreats to her room and kisses the frog, transforming it into a silent boy. Their humorous and heartwarming friendship helps Anna accept nature's life cycle and reconnect with her mother so they can navigate their loss together.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.
I give Frogs and Feathers 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Frogs and Feathers is a beautiful, deeply moving Danish short film about grief, magic, and moving forward. On her birthday, ten-year-old Anna retreats to the lake--where she used to care for frogs with her late father--to protect a frog from predatory crows. When her grieving mother asks her to return it, Anna retreats to her room and kisses the frog, transforming it into a silent boy. Their humorous and heartwarming friendship helps Anna accept nature's life cycle and reconnect with her mother so they can navigate their loss together.
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.
I give Frogs and Feathers 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 13 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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STUCK IN A FILM - BORIS BAKAL
Series: FOREIGN ELEMENTARY STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-18
Description - Stuck in a Film is a short fiction film about a film crew trapped in an elevator. Through a series of phone calls for help, the enclosed space of the elevator becomes connected to the outside world, while their seemingly ordinary mishap slowly turns into a surreal cinematic situation. Help, of course, never really arrives -- and in the end the elevator starts moving only by chance, when other people press the button and enter it. From Croatia; dialogue in Croatian; English subtitles
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Stuck in a Film is a creative and unique short, though its plot can be a bit confusing. The story follows a four-person film crew trapped in an elevator, desperately pressing buttons to get help. At first, pressing a button triggers surreal events in the outside world--like a group of people suddenly hula dancing in a busy market. Just as you expect each button to cause a new outdoor reaction, the concept randomly shifts to the buttons making phone calls instead. While the execution doesn't always make sense, the engaging camera work, eerie music, and busy urban backdrop build a fun sense of mystery.The young actors deliver great, relatable performances that capture real stress and frustration. The blue-backpack kid stands out with his overwhelmed expressions, while the long-haired kid takes charge as the crew's steady leader. My favorite scene is the market dance, where more and more people join in.
The film's message is that unexpected things happen in life. Note that it contains profanity and mentions of a dog getting drunk.
I give Stuck in a Film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Stuck in a Film is a creative and unique short, though its plot can be a bit confusing. The story follows a four-person film crew trapped in an elevator, desperately pressing buttons to get help. At first, pressing a button triggers surreal events in the outside world--like a group of people suddenly hula dancing in a busy market. Just as you expect each button to cause a new outdoor reaction, the concept randomly shifts to the buttons making phone calls instead. While the execution doesn't always make sense, the engaging camera work, eerie music, and busy urban backdrop build a fun sense of mystery.
The young actors deliver great, relatable performances that capture real stress and frustration. The blue-backpack kid stands out with his overwhelmed expressions, while the long-haired kid takes charge as the crew's steady leader. My favorite scene is the market dance, where more and more people join in.
The film's message is that unexpected things happen in life. Note that it contains profanity and mentions of a dog getting drunk.
I give Stuck in a Film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
