KIDS FIRST! News

Dallas Jenkins, creator of The Chosen, proudly reintroduces his heartfelt family film What If…. Still popular after its release 15 years ago, this faith-filled classic was inspired by Dallas Jenkins’s favorite film, It’s a Wonderful Life and follows Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo), a businessman who abandoned his faith. One day, Ben wakes up living the life he was destined for — married to his college sweetheart (Kristy Swanson) and serving as a small-town pastor. Featuring memorable performances by John Ratzenberger and Debby Ryan, the film blends humor, heart, and powerful family themes. To mark its 15th anniversary, Jenkins reunites with Sorbo, Swanson, Ratzenberger, and producer Michael Scott to reflect on its lasting impact in a special feature shown after the film. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience What If’s inspiring message on the big screen, inviting audiences to reflect on their own “what if” moments and find hope through faith.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.” Jude A. adds, “I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme.” See their full reviews and interview with lead, Kevin Sorbo, below.

What If…
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.

The storyline tells the tale of Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo) who has lived the wildly successful life of a business executive. He loves his life, or seems to, until God and an angel named Mike (John Ratzenberger) decide to flip the script on Ben’s current situation. What follows is Ben’s chance to understand that money isn’t everything, and to catch a glimpse of what his life could have been if he had answered God’s call.

I love how wholesome everything is in this film — no hidden messaging or polarized viewpoints, just an honest, pure, family friendly movie.  Kevin Sorbo portrays all the different emotions of Ben Walker as his entire life is turned upside down, with laughable results.  From asking Mike the Angel about what just happened and what he is doing here, to learning how to become a father and husband, Ben has his hands full, and Kevin Sorbo delivers that beautifully. His new family made up of his wife Wendy (Kristy Swanson), and their two daughters Kimberly (Debby Ryan) and Megan (Taylor Groothuis) add to the chemistry and eventfulness of his newfound life.

The contrasts between the big city of Ben’s old life and the small town of his new reality further strengthen the point that status isn’t always needed to be happy. My favorite part of this film is all of Ben’s interactions with Mike. This angel has a wonderful sense of humor, and he uses all of it on Ben by deflecting his accusations with kindness and laughter. Eventually, even Ben learns to enjoy his comments and puns.

This film’s message is to appreciate your second chances. Before Ben’s meeting with God and Mike, he was only interested in making money, and lots of it. Now that he’s been given a second chance to see the true meaning of life, and what he has been missing, he will never be the same man he was before.

I give What If… 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025 as special screenings via Fathom Events.

What If …
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme.

The storyline is about a businessman who abandons his faith in exchange for worldly possessions. He gets a chance to see what his life would be like if he had followed his faith.

I like how love is displayed in such a powerful way. I like that Ben (Kevin Sorbo) and Wendy’s (Kristy Swanson) love is unbreakable, and they stick together as one big happy family. I did not like how Ben was stubborn and rude with God and how he brags about himself – he comes across as too prideful and arrogant. I do like how he shows kindness to the receptionist in the hospital. The main characters are Ben Walker, Wendy, Kimberly (Debby Ryan), Megan (Taylor Groothuis), and Mike the angel (John Ratzenberger).

Ben Walker is in an accident and wakes up in a dream and starts living the life he was destined for.  He marries a girl named Wendy and becomes a lead pastor at a small-town church.  There are many funny scenes, like one where the angel hits Ben too close to his eyes and then he teleports.  Also, at times Ben talks and no one understands what he says, not even his wife. This movie has a lot of sad moments – three scenes made me cry. The costumes are ok, although I did not like Mike’s old rusted costume, but I love Ben’s nice suit. I love the graphics because the quality is crisp although it’s an old movie. I like the office where he proposes, the house, especially the bedroom with the green decor.

And lastly I like the church, when the congregation is speechless after Ben’s speech. I also love the music, but the audio has some issues.

The film’s message is that you should always put God first in everything you do, no matter what, whether you are rich or poor, wise or fool; you should always follow the plan and the purpose that God has predestined for you.

I give What If… 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025, via Fathom Events.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro- futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family – Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Ben Grimm/The Thing and Johnny Storm/Human Torch as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer. And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other. If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!” Rayce S. adds, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly. It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films.” See their full reviews below.

Fantastic Four: First Steps
By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

It’s clobbering time! The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other.

If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!

The story centers around the Fantastic Four, Earth 828’s version of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The Fantastic Four soon find out that Susan Storm, The Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), is having a baby.

We then meet the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) who tells the team that she has summoned a terrible threat to destroy their earth. Who is this creature, and how does all this loop back to their son, Franklin?

With so many questions, the Fantastic Four sets off into space to try to save the planet.

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantasticin 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

Marvel’s “First Family” has never looked better! With a great set of ensemble actors – Pedro Pascal, Vanesa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach – leading the way, it’s no wonder this movie kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!

The storyline includes so many nods to the original comic books, including the Fantastic Four fighting a CGI-animated monster that was featured in their first comic book. Speaking of CGI, this movie is amazing making the world look seamlessly real in the “Mighty Marvel Manner.”

The cinematography, costumes, music, and set design really bring a 1960s vibe to life. The relationship arc between The Human Torch and The Silver Surfer is great – from frenemies to lovers and back multiple times.

One key trait of MCU films is the attention to detail. Things that many people might not notice are added to create real depth and surprise. For example, when Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) walks the streets, he wears a grey trench coat and a fedora. This is a nod to a costume he wore when he was separated from the Fantastic Four in the comics and a fun detail for fans.

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and 2025 MARVEL

The film’s message is that your community is a family. The film includes themes like the power of motherly love, fighting for what’s right, and the need for a global community. Parents should be aware that the movie includes fight scenes and scenes where the Fantastic Four are in perilous situations, including when they are escaping Galactus.

I give Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 25, 2025. Be sure to stay until the end of the first credits for a sneak peek at what’s coming next to the MCU.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly.

It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films.

Of course it wouldn’t be the same without its outstanding cast.

The storyline follows the Fantastic Four as they are forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond and they must defend Earth from a ravenously hungry space god, Galactus, and his Herald, The Silver Surfer.

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL

I truly adore this film for so many reasons, starting with its mixture of genres. Apart from the MCU it stands by itself as a space, comedy, romance or even a family sitcom that you would love. That is an important factor and this film blows it out of the park. The pacing and structure are some of the best I’ve ever seen. There’s never a dull moment and it is truly an experience worthy of your time. In terms of production aesthetics I love the set design – everything looks like it’s from the 40’s and 50’s which really makes it stand out and, even though the world looks old, the camera work and lighting are very contemporary. This is one of the most colorful and expressive MCU movies ever, but it would fall apart without the editing which is probably one of the best edited movies of the year.

It’s hard to name a standout in the cast but my favorite performance is from Pedro Pascal who plays Reed Richards. He really puts you into the situation that the team is in and the danger and fear that they feel.

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

However you would not feel that danger or that fear without Ralph Ineson’s Galactus, whose dominating and demanding presence you feel in every word he speaks. As for the rest of the cast, Vanessa Kirby’s performance as Sue Storm made a huge impression on me. This film left me speechless for hours afterwards. If there’s one thing I truly recommend, it’s to see this movie in IMAX because it completely enhances your viewing experience when you see the scale of Galactus on the big screen. Plus, all the space shots and even the moments of seeing the family together feel bigger.

The movie’s theme is about family and how you move heaven and earth to protect them no matter what happens in life and that your family is what is most important. No matter what happens, you put them first.

I give The Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on July 25, 2025.

In the complex world we navigate today, teaching kids to be critical thinkers and savvy media consumers has never been more vital. At KIDS FIRST!, we’ve embraced this mission for 34 years, and our impact on youth and families is a legacy we cherish. Our alumni consistently tell us the profound difference KIDS FIRST! has made in their lives.

This year, despite the unexpected loss of two major government grants due to recent challenges in Washington, we’ve pivoted with purpose. We’re launching two exciting initiatives to create sustainable, ongoing revenue streams to support our essential KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program and the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival.

A Win-Win for Schools and Future Leaders

We’ve established a groundbreaking partnership with a network of 5,000 Montessori schools nationwide. We’ll collaborate with them to host the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival at their campuses – serving as either a vibrant fundraising event for their school or a special bonus for their families. This is truly a win-win, offering schools a fantastic program while generating vital funds for KIDS FIRST!

With each participating school, we’ll recruit new members for our KIDS FIRST! Film Critic team. These young critics will provide their schoolmates with the latest film and media reviews, fostering media literacy from within their own communities.

Our Urgent Need: Doubling Your Impact

To kick start these powerful initiatives, we urgently need to raise $30,000 in the next 30 days. This is a deeply personal ask. Like many of you, I am profoundly concerned about the future of our country, of our world, and committed to efforts organizations that make a tangible difference.

Right now, your donation to KIDS FIRST! will be matched dollar-for-dollar through August 31st! This is a powerful opportunity to double your impact and fuel a movement that’s building a smarter, more discerning generation.

More Than a Program – It’s a Movement. KIDS FIRST! is about more than just film reviews; it’s about empowering young people. Our team of KIDS FIRST! Film Critics creates their own insightful reviews of the latest films, TV shows, and digital media. These reviews are shared with the public through our social media channels, website, and blogs. We’ve cultivated a vibrant community of young people who:

• Know how to sort disinformation & misinformation from credible information.
• Believe in the positive power of media to create positive change in the world.
• Are passionate about sharing their voices with an ever-growing audience.

If you’ve ever doubted the potential of young people, this program will make you feel incredibly optimistic about the leaders of tomorrow.

Please consider a donation of any amount – no amount is too small!

• Donate or learn more at: https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirst2025
• Follow our podcast: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-kids-first-coming-attractio-277638809
• Watch our reviews and interviews:
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Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for your invaluable support. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]

Sincerely,

Ranny and the KIDS FIRST! Team

Coming-of-age can be difficult, but is always more bearable when you have someone who connects with you on a cellular level. Shari Lewis – a children’s television pioneer before Fred Rogers, Jim Henson, and others – was one of those people. She was a dancer, singer, and magician, but was best known as the ventriloquist behind sock puppets Charlie Horse, Hush Puppy and, of course, Lamb Chop. This heartfelt and entertaining doc charts the life, loves, and career hits and misses of the spunky perfectionist who forever changed the face of children’s television. Featuring ventriloquists she inspired and nostalgia-laden clips, this upbeat portrait brims, like Lewis, with warmth and charm.  Shari and Lamb Chop is the tonic we all need to reconnect with our inner children, and celebrate pure imagination.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.” See her full review and interview with the director and Shari’s daughter, Mallory below.

Shari & Lamb Chop
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 21

Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.

This documentary isn’t just a tribute, it’s a celebration of imagination, perseverance, and the enduring magic of storytelling.

What I love most about Shari & Lamb Chop is how it dives beyond the surface of fame to explore the personal journey of a multi-talented performer. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and rare home movies, the film shows how Shari Lewis redefined what it meant to connect with young audiences, on her own terms and in a male-dominated industry. The documentary balances entertainment and emotion in a way that feels honest and unforgettable.

This documentary is a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling and the legacy of pioneers who paved the way for joy and imagination.

The film tells the story of Shari Lewis, a Bronx-born performer who overcame a career-ending dance injury by channeling her creativity into ventriloquism. With her iconic sock puppet Lamb Chop, and other characters like Charlie Horse and Hush Puppy, she rose to national fame as one of the earliest stars in children’s television. The film follows her journey through the highs of early success, the disappointment of cancellation, and her incredible resurgence in the 1990s when she once again captured the hearts of a new generation.

The interviews are a major highlight. Ventriloquists and performers who were inspired by Lewis, as well as her daughter Mallory Lewis, offer touching insights and personal stories.

The archival clips of Shari’s performances are charming and delightful, full of wit, warmth, and timeless energy. One of my favorite parts is seeing Shari backstage, meticulously working on her characters and pushing herself to be better, not for fame, but because she believed in children and what they deserved from entertainment.

The message of this documentary is powerful: women can lead, innovate, and inspire, even in industries that underestimate them.

It also reminds us of the value in treating children as intelligent and imaginative individuals, something Shari Lewis always believed in.

There is no inappropriate content, and it promotes creativity, curiosity, and perseverance, making it perfect for families and classrooms.

I give Shari & Lamb Chop 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults who grew up with Lamb Chop or are discovering her magic for the first time. It opens in theaters on July 18, 2025 and will also be available digitally and on home video.

When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Giana N. comments, “The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by!” Kennedy P. adds, “Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop.” Maica N. adds, “So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken.” See their full reviews below.

Smurfs
Giana N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by. This film is one of a kind and it is not something you would want to miss!

This storyline follows the smurfs who live in Smurf Village and how they go about their  everyday lives – who they are, what they do, and how they portray themselves to the world. Everyone has a thing, except No Name (James Corden). In the midst of finding who he truly is, Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is taken by Razamel (J.P. Karliak) in hopes that he would give him what he needs to take over the world. No Name, Smurfette (Rihanna), and the rest of the smurfs have to go out into the real world to try and save Papa Smurf. In order to stop Razamel and Gargamel, the smurfs need to understand their history and discover what they can accomplish working together.

Papa Smurf (John Goodman), Smurfette (Rihanna) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Something cool and interesting that accompanied this production was a short SpongeBob SquarePants film called Order Up that played before the feature. It is a fun little way to engage the audience before the actual movie and the way they did it was very creative. Another aspect of Smurfs I enjoyed is the musical side. Throughout the film, there are songs that explore deeper details of the characters’ feelings which help the audience relate to the character better and understand their innermost feelings. I particularly enjoyed the song “Always on the Outside.” The comedy is one of the best parts of the movie – the jokes are not only hilarious, but they are understandable by all ages. The use of animation and human characters is also something I appreciate because it is very creative how they incorporate each skill.

The film’s message is that you should never change who you are. During the film, No Name often questions if he has a purpose in this world, and Smurfette never fails to remind him that he is perfect in his own way. That is a message that all ages can benefit from.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12; I highly recommend it for a family-movie night. You can watch this film in theaters starting July 18, 2025. Be sure to check it out.

Smurfs
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Grouchy Smurf (Chris Miller) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop. The film is revamped and re-animated and I love it.

When evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel (JP Karliak) take Papa Smurf (John Goodman), the Smurfs embark on a mission to the real world to save him. With help from some new friends, they must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

The animation is SO cool! It reminds me of the original cartoon but it’s even better, with really bold colors and fun textures that make everything pop.

Smurfette (Rihanna) and No Name (James Corden) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

The way the animation is super stylized makes the whole movie feel like a comic book come to life.  The voice talent is really awesome. John Goodman makes the perfect Papa Smurf; he sounds super wise and kind. Nick Offerman plays Papa’s brother Ken and he’s hilarious, kind of like Ron Swanson but as a Smurf.  Kurt Russell is another brother named Ron, and he totally looks like how you’d imagine a Smurf version of him would.  JP Karliak is clearly having fun while pulling double duty as classic Smurfs baddie Gargamel and Razamel.  Rihanna is so good as Smurfette – her voice is really cool and confident, but also very sweet. She makes Smurfette feel extra fun and strong.  Xolo Mariduena is awesome as Brainy, he makes him sound super smart but also really funny, so you actually like him even when he’s being a know-it-all.  You can totally tell the entire cast put their whole heart into every character as they are all fun and full of personality.

The film’s message is about the importance of family – not just the one you’re born into, but the family you choose. It also reminds us that being different is what makes us special, and when you work together, you can take on anything.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.  Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025.

Smurfs
Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

Mama Poot (Natasha Lyonne), Ken (Nick Offerman), Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever. Smurfs combines captivating music, relatable characters, and a bit of fantasy, creating a nostalgic but fresh experience that fulfilled my expectations.

The new Smurfs movie follows No Name (James Corden) as he tries to find his place within Smurf village. When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is kidnapped by the small, yet power hungry Razamel (JP Karliak), Smurfette (Rihanna) leads No Name and their other smurf friends on a rescue mission through the real world. On their journey, they navigate countless obstacles, testing their character and faith in one another.

Jezebeth (Hannah Waddingham), Asmodius (Octavia Spencer) and Chernobog (Nick Kroll) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Smurfs is a playful and entertaining film that carries a valuable message that viewers young and old can relate to. As a fan of the original Smurfs movies, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new animated version. However, the updated design complements the storyline and keeps viewers engaged. By the end of the upbeat, high-energy opening number, I had already forgotten about the difference in animation. The smurfs’ choreography mirrors real dance moves, demonstrating how the animators utilized the new style to its full potential. Although the film has two prequels, viewers don’t need to watch them to follow the plot. Smurfs provides enough background information and original story elements to stand on its own. The pacing is solid overall, though the ending feels slightly drawn out – but the final group song and dance make it worth the wait. The cast is star-studded, featuring esteemed actors Octavia Spencer and Sandra Oh as Asmodius and Moxie Smurf, with Rihanna and James Corden adding impressive vocals that help maintain the film’s lively tone.

The film’s message is that you do not have to conform to something you aren’t just to fit into a crowd – who you truly are, will shine through naturally. No Name is constantly trying new things to find a sense of belonging with his smurf friends who have already found their identities. However, he eventually realizes that his true identity was within him the entire time.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find Smurfs in theaters on July 18, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Smurfs
Mikella G, KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 19

Jaunty (Amy Sedaris) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

I really like Smurfs! It is a fun comedic movie that is enjoyable and nostalgic as well. Even though it caters to younger kids, I grew up watching the Smurf movies, so getting to dive back into that world was a fun experience. The storyline is definitely interesting, and kept my attention the entire time.

murfs takes us back to the fun and joyous smurf village where all the smurfs that we know and love are living happily. However, there is one smurf named “No Name” (James Corden), who doesn’t have a name yet because he is struggling to find his purpose and natural talent. He eventually discovers his power of magic, but unfortunately this power becomes too strong, causing him to uncover a whole world that Papa Smurf (John Goodman) had been hiding from the rest of them. When Papa Surf is captured by the evil wizards, the rest of the smurfs must go on an adventure to the real world, in order to not only save him, but their home as they know it.

Mama Poot (Natasha Lyonne), Ken (Nick Offerman), Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Something that I really enjoyed is this wild storyline. There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken. This really helped keep my attention span. The movie went by really fast for me. That is something very important, especially for a film catered toward children, because their attention span can be short. It’s easy for kids to get bored or distracted. This film is the perfect length – 92 minutes – and is filled with plenty of entertainment. There are quite a few large dance numbers that I was highly impressed by. Each smurf does a complex dance that is so clean and detailed — every movement is very specific, and these truly caught my eye. It’s as if they are real dancers executing these movements. Another standout is the animation. I’ve never seen an animation quite like this before, especially with such clarity and precision. Plus, the colors and backgrounds in smurf village are so vibrant and pretty. The sky is the perfect blue, and the flowers represent every color in the rainbow. They really bring this world to life, and create a place that even I want to visit! This matches perfectly with the smurfs’ energy and happiness. Lastly, all the music matches the vibe and energy of the film. Specifically, there is one scene where the smurfs enter a nightclub, and an upbeat Rihanna song starts to play. The single that Rihanna wrote for the film titled, “Friend Of Mine” is so much fun, and completely elevates the energy of the movie.

The film’s message is to never give up on yourself and those you love.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025.