KIDS FIRST! Jury Blog

The Short Game follows Texas high school student Jeremy Avery, a golf prodigy vying for a prestigious college scholarship awarded to the winner of the State Championship, but his preparation and game are affected by family pressures related to his mother’s recovery from cancer and having to take care of his younger autistic brother Ethan. These challenges, along with the burden of carrying his team to State against an opponent who will do anything to win, force Jeremy to reconsider his priorities and see his brother’s savant-like gifts, which if embraced can create an unstoppable pair. On the brink of his greatest victory, Jeremy is forced to make a life-altering decision between finally realizing his own personal dreams or standing by his brother.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Isabella V. comments, “The Short Game is a heartwarming movie with great interpretation by incredible performances from the cast. It has a great message along with amazing character development from the protagonist and his relationship with his brother.” Junior R. adds, “FORE!  If you think golf is a snoozefest, the film, The Short Game will definitely change your mind. In fact you don’t even have to love golf to enjoy this movie – you just have to care about people in general.” Hadley B. wraps it up with, “I really like the film The Short Game because there is so much excitement and hard work going on in the film. It is super exciting to watch and learn what the movie is about. I also love how real it feels.” See their full reviews below.

The Short Game
By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

https://youtu.be/PotELufwJtU

The Short Game is a heartwarming movie with great interpretation by incredible performances from the cast. It has a great message along with amazing character development from the protagonist and his relationship with his brother.

The story follows Jeremy Avery (Ben Krieger) who is trying to procure a golf scholarship, which is hampered when he is forced to look after his younger, autistic brother Ethan (Owen Himfar). Jeremy dismisses Ethan’s abilities and believes he’s getting in the way, leading him to choose between his brother and golf.

The character development in this movie is outstanding, especially with Jeremy. It feels completely realistic for the situation he is in, and I found myself easily understanding and liking his character. His change is paced very well; it never seems too fast. This is also enhanced by the great acting from both Ben Krieger and Owen Himfar, as Jeremy and Ethan. Himfar’s portrayal of Ethan is heartwarming; however, both he and Krieger portray their characters extremely well, and their chemistry adds so much to the story. They seem like actual brothers, which makes Jeremy feel believable and understanding. The cinematography, by Greg Matthews, is gorgeous, and I love that it’s shown through a teenager filming a documentary. That is so unique and adds to the realism of the story.

Another technical aspect I appreciate is the music, composed by Brandon Maahs, which adds emotion to the story. The story itself is wonderfully written and presents an amazing depiction of autism and how people view it.

The film’s message is to treat others with kindness since there’s always more to a person. Be forewarned that there is some mild profanity, along with depictions of death and bullying.

I give The Short Game 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters August 29, 2025.

The Short Game
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

FORE!  If you think golf is a snoozefest, the film, The Short Game will definitely change your mind. In fact you don’t even have to love golf to enjoy this movie – you just have to care about people in general.

The Short Game is a heartfelt sports film about a teenage golfer named Jeremy Avery (Ben Kriger), who’s chasing his dreams of getting a college scholarship while also taking care of his autistic younger brother, Ethan (Owen Himfar). At first, Jeremy sees Ethan as a burden, but he soon realizes that his brother has a unique and special talent for golf. As the pressure mounts and the family struggles to strive, the brothers’ bond grows closer and closer and find their strength in each other. Their new connection leads to a big turning point at the Amateur All-State High School Championship, where everything they’ve learned is put to the test.  You’ll have to watch it to find out what happens.

The performances in The Short Game are nothing less than excellent.  Owen Himfar portrays the autistic brother, Ethan with depth and sincerity, capturing just how special he is.  Ethan’s character brings a magical element to the film, keeping the audience on their toes.  The heart of the film focuses on family, faith, and bonds.  Jeremy’s friend, Tommy (Tyler Lofton), is a great example of a positive friend – he always encourages others, stays loyal, and shows his strong Christian faith throughout the movie. The golf course scenes are amazing, with huge open spaces and shiny sunlight that makes everything glow.  Additionally, the out-of-this-world drone shots from above make it feel like a real adventure.  My favorite part is when Ethan truly becomes a key element to Jeremy’s team.

The film’s message is about the importance of family, understanding others, and embracing differences in each other. It also reminds us that the path to success isn’t just about winning; it’s more about supporting each other and growing together. Be forewarned that there are some minor cuss words used.

I give The Short Game 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  It releases in theaters August 29, 2025.

The Short Game
Hadley B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

https://youtu.be/NlAfqwtPNKo

I really like the film The Short Game because there is so much excitement and hard work going on in the film. It is super exciting to watch and learn what the movie is about. I also love how real it feels.

The storyline follows a Texas high school student named Jeremy Avery (Ben Krieger) who really wants a golf scholarship but his plans are held back due to him having to help care for his autistic brother. Faced with the choice between the scholarship and his relationship with his brother, Jeremy decides to choose his brother – a reminder that love and family come first.

The theme of this film is very positive and the actors all deliver believable performances. Ben Krieger, as the protagonist Jeremy, gives a great performance; even his golfing looks realistic. The relationship between Jeremy and his brother Ethan is critical to the storyline. Initially, Jeremy is upset because he has to help care for his autistic brother, but then Jeremy and his friend Tommy (Tyler Lofton) are golfing and figure out how to involve Ethan in the game. Ethan’s super power is his insight into knowing which putter to use and things like that. The other relationship that is important is Jeremy’s relationship with his best friend Tommy; when Tommy dies unexpectedly in a motorcycle accident Jeremy is torn apart since his last words with him were unkind, but his mom helps him recall how much Tommy loved him and that helps him forgive himself. One of the things that stand out in this film is the golf course setting, especially at sunset. Community is important – I like how the characters all support the high school tournament. The costume designs stand out as they work very well for the film, especially the dress that Jeremy’s mom (Katherine Cunningham) wears, which is very pretty.

The film’s message is that you don’t need anything to do what you love – you just need to believe. Be aware that there is a bit of profanity in the film.

I give The Short Game 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 12, plus adults! It releases in theaters August 29, 2025.

This summer, celebrate the joy and magic of summer camp and the importance of preserving what you love. Charlie Brown loves camp and is determined to make his final year special, but Sally – a first-time camper – is nervous and skeptical of the new and unfamiliar place. While everyone settles into camp, Snoopy and Woodstock discover a treasure map that takes them on a wild adventure nearby.

One morning, the Peanuts gang learns that their beloved camp is shutting down because there are fewer campers joining each summer. The news especially saddens Charlie Brown, who feels hopeless about losing a place that has meant so much to him and his friends. Meanwhile, on their adventure, Snoopy and Woodstock find the sought-after treasure chest, but are quickly disappointed when they discover it’s not riches, but instruments and photos from past summer concerts held at the camp. Newly inspired, Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang use the treasure to host their own concert to save the camp.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical is like going to summer camp all over again. A wholesome story, laughter, music, and that signature Peanuts illustration style whip up a treat that’s perfect to enjoy on a summer day.” See his full review below.

Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

One word can sum up this musical film – adorable.  It feels like it jumped right out of the comic strip, and onto the screen. It stays true to the special history of Peanuts and doesn’t deviate from the original characters.

Charlie Brown (Etienne Kellici) is ecstatic to be returning to summer camp for his senior year, and to make it better, his little sis, Sally (Hattie Kragten), gets to come along!  Well, it’s better for Charlie Brown anyway, as Sally is unsure about the whole “living in the wild” idea.  When the campers learn their favorite place on Earth is facing closure, even Sally is saddened. Now it’s up to her, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the kids, with some help from Snoopy (Terry McGurrin) and Woodstock (Rob Tinkler), to save the camp before summer is over.

This show has the remarkable feature of two separate adventures, one with Snoopy and Woodstock, and the other starring the kids at camp. These combine at the end of the feature, and the results are somehow both surprising and expected.  Bright color is everywhere, and I love how the animation looks like a moving illustration, similar to other Snoopy Presents titles. My favorite element is the music, and how well it spotlights the different emotions of camp – excitement for the unknown, and yet the trepidation that comes with being unsure of what to expect, the happiness of old friends, and the sadness of leaving them for a year.

The idea of a time-honored summer camp is alive and well.  Items like a picture wall and adventurous tales told by veteran campers capture the feeling that this place holds fond memories.  It reminded me a lot of my childhood camp.  It also does well explaining how these natural places are important to our well being, and must be protected.

The film’s message is to cherish what you have, as you may not have it forever.  Charlie Brown and the gang have been coming to camp for as long as they can remember, and they know they have to leave it better than they found it if newcomers like Sally and her friends want to enjoy it in the future.

I give Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. This charming film dances onto AppleTV+ on July 18 2025.

The Bad Guys 2 is a 2025 American animated heist comedy film loosely based on the children’s book series The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey, produced by DreamWorks Animation. The sequel to The Bad Guys (2022), it was directed by Pierre Perifel, co-directed by JP Sans, and written by Yoni Brenner and Etan Cohen. The film stars Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, Awkwafina, Zazie Beetz, Richard Ayoade, Lilly Singh, and Alex Borstein, reprising their roles from the first film, with Danielle Brooks, Maria Bakalova and Natasha Lyonne joining the cast. The film sees the Bad Guys come out of retirement and join forces with an all-female criminal squad to perform one last heist.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Arjun N. comments, “DreamWorks continue their hot streak with a caper that doubles down on the charm and intrigue of the first. I loved the humor, heart, and high-octane thrills in The Bad Guys 2. Even if the film doesn’t completely transcend the first, it’s enjoyable to watch.” See his full review below.

The Bad Guys 2
By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 23

(from left) Mr. Snake (Marc Maron) and Doom (Natasha Lyonne) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

DreamWorks continue their hot streak with a caper that doubles down on the charm and intrigue of the first. I loved the humor, heart, and high-octane thrills in The Bad Guys 2. Even if the film doesn’t completely transcend the first, it’s enjoyable to watch.

The Bad Guys have become the newly reformed Good Guys and they meet their greatest challenge yet, making it through job interviews with their reputation preceding them. After failure repeatedly dawns upon the group, the leader, Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell) suggests that they use their skills to stop a squad of criminals, dubbed the Bad Girls, from stealing a prized wrestling belt. What should have been a simple job quickly turns into an orchestrated cat-and-mouse game with the Bad Girls that has immense repercussions – fortunately, this is just the job for the Good Guys.

(from left) Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina), Chief Misty Luggins (Alex Borstein), Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) and Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell) n DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

The animation is on another level compared to the first – the fast-paced action feels electrifying while the emotions on the characters look real. It’s a testament to the gold standard of animation that DreamWorks offers. Notably, a sequence involving a space station is tastefully over-the-top with breathtaking visuals that had me in awe. One shortcoming is that some of the jokes didn’t land as well as others. The fart jokes felt excessive, and there’s a heap of self-referential humor that broke my immersion. But, most of the humor is thoughtfully hilarious. The cast delivers unique vocal performances that will join the roster of memorable DreamWorks’ characters. Sam Rockwell, as Mr. Wolf, is the heart of the film. You root for him to not only get a job with the crew, but also to get together with Diane Foxington (Zazie Beetz) with whom he shares chemistry.

Wolf (Sam Rockwell) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

This time, Foxington has a kick to her as the governor of Los Angeles, while maintaining her elusive identity as the Crimson Paw when it comes to fighting the Bad Girls. The other “Bad” Guys join Mr. Wolf on the path for redemption with Anthony Ramos, as Mr. Piranha, being a comedic standout. Awkwafina, as Ms. Tarantula, offers the brains of the operation. Unfortunately, Mark Maron, as Mr. Snake, takes a back seat with his love life, although he still cracks some safes. Fans might be disappointed by the lack of camaraderie between Mr. Wolf and Mr. Snake – after all, the franchise started with them. On the flip side, the Bad Girls offer complementary foils to the protagonists. Danielle Brookes, as Kitty Kat, is a compelling antagonist whose motives aren’t generically evil, but ultimately you understand why she must stop. The other Bad Girls are well performed and offer surprises that I can’t spoil.

(from left) Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) and Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

The film’s message is about change. The reformation of the Bad Guys proves that, with the right attitude and people, anyone can genuinely become their best self. The film contains some mild violence and profanity.

The Bad Guys 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on August 1, 2025.