KIDS FIRST! News

On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast, defies centuries of traditional dragon-fighting practice when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Madeleine H.K. comments, “This film grabbed my attention and held it from the get go – the action and suspense of the battle scenes, the trials of flight and the intense training to be dragon slayer are all intense.” Charlotte L. adds, “I enjoyed this remake of the original movie into a live-action version, turning the animated characters into live action characters.” Emma O. adds, “How to train Your Dragon reminds us to be true to ourselves, to build friendships through discovery and that first impressions are not always what they seem.” Selene W. adds, “For those of us who already love the characters in this epic adventure, I am pleased that the live action version is faithful to the original…” Eva M. adds, “The film’s message is about empathy, courage, and challenging the ideas we are taught.” Ruhi K. wraps it up with, “How To Train Your Dragon is a rip-roaring fantasy film packed with intricate special effects, a powerful musical score, and plenty of emotion.” See their full reviews and Eva’s interview with Mason Thames below.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Madeleine H. K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love the new, live action How to Train Your Dragon. It is funny and action packed. This film made me sit on the edge of my seat while making me laugh.

How to Train Your Dragon is centered around a Viking boy named Hiccup (Mason Thames ) who wants to fit in with the others and go through training so he can help his village kill the dragons that attack them. When Hiccup is finally allowed to go through training he is just trying to survive the ordeal along with his classmates. At the same time, he is keeping his secret of the dragon, which he found and rescued in the woods, safe and hidden from the dragon slayers. This rescue includes inventing and building devices to befriend the dragon and learning to fly it.

This film grabbed my attention and held it from the get go – the action and suspense of the battle scenes, the trials of flight and the intense training to be dragon slayer are all intense.  Every character is lovable, from Hiccup, who is just the right amount of dorky and funny, to Astrid (Nico Parker), who is a total girl boss and one hundred percent ready to fight anyone that prevents her from becoming number one. The supporting characters all have endearing qualities such as Fishlegs (Julian Dennison), who knows every fact and detail about dragons and can’t wait to share it all — even if it means his hair is burnt-off; to the twins, Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn) and Ruffnut (Bronwen James), who boast more than they should and constantly bicker.  The eternal approval-seeking Snotlought (Gabriel Howell) strives for his father’s attention, as well as, winning over Astrid to numerous hilarious outcomes.

The chief Viking (Gerard Butler) portrays the protective, yet disappointed dad of Hiccup and the fierce leader of the Viking tribe. The landscapes are incredible and no detail is missed from the straw roofs of the village houses to the cove where Hiccup befriends and trains the dragon he names Toothless. The rustic, yet beautiful costumes, feature soft animal pelts, smooth leathers and detailed horned metal helmets.  The music kept my heart thumping with its sharp crescendos and beats that signal action; every note enhances the film, especially the battle scenes. The CGI in this movie is amazing — you can see each and every scale that seems to reflect the light off the dragons along with every stroke of the color of toothless iris.

How to Train Your Dragon sends a message of peace and kindness to all living creatures; we are not our history and, with a little understanding, we can make friends with the fiercest beasts. Be aware that the film has bright lights, jump scares and loud sounds that may be overwhelming to some people

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. How to Train Your Dragon releases in theaters June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14

I like this live action re-adaptation of the original How to Train Your Dragon and how it combines action and humor.

The storyline follows a Viking named Hiccup (Mason Thames) who has always felt out of place. At first he wants to join the fight against the Vikings and the dragons, until he captures one of the deadliest dragons, a Night Fury, and finds he can’t kill it. He names the dragon Toothless and bonds with it, realizing that he has to stop this feud against the dragons and the Vikings.

I enjoyed this remake of the original movie into a live-action version, turning the animated characters into live action characters.

They kept all the important parts of the story and only slightly changed things to accommodate the live action format. There are beautiful landscape shots – my favorite is a view from the sky watching Hiccup ride Toothless. The flying is so realistic looking. Hiccup is competing in a dragon training competition while the main plot takes place. His competitors, Astrid (Nico Parker), Ruffnut (Bronwyn James), Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn), Snotlout (Gabriel Howell) and Fishlegs (Julian Dennsion) bring humor to the film, and also provide action scenes for our enjoyment.

They look down on Hiccup and are shocked when he performs so well, in a comedic and arrogant way. The costumes are also detailed and realistic looking. The characters look like true Vikings with fur clothes, Viking helmets, and weapons strapped all over.

The film’s message is that, even when you’re looked down on by others, you can still make a huge difference in their lives.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It releases in theaters on June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Animation comes to life in this remake of How to Train Your Dragon. I loved revisiting this story. This was a favorite of mine on its initial release as an animated feature, and Director Dean DeBlois crafts a renewed magical experience in this live action version.  Filled with visual imagery and character reenactment, this film refreshes the world of dragons for everyone.

How to Train Your Dragon is set on the mythical isle of Berk. For ages, this village of Vikings has battled dragons to sustain life. When a young man, Hiccup (Mason Thames) struggles to contribute to this life of dragon slaying, he discovers his own purpose and talents through an unexpected bond with a dragon named Toothless. The friendship forges a path to a new way of life for the entire community.

I love how this film keeps the original storyline and brings the animated characters to life through amazing videography and costume design. The comic characters of Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyon) and Snotlout (Gabriel Howell) are so well cast; it’s like they emerged from the animated film in human form. The imagery when Toothless flies over mountains and dramatically plummets and twirls through the air made me feel as if I was riding the dragon myself. The heartfelt bonding moments between Toothless and Hiccup are created through imagery and sound – we hear the growls and groans of Toothless as he expresses himself. The groans and facial expression show us how trust and friendship forms. Sound creates amazing moments throughout the film.

One can hear the wisp of the dragon tail opening to the flap of a dragon wing in flight. Sound creates a space that suspends reality in this mystical space.

Actor Mason Thames, who plays Hiccup, gets a special shout out for interacting with Toothless, the mythical creature who isn’t there. That’s acting!

How to train Your Dragon reminds us to be true to ourselves, to build friendships through discovery and that first impressions are not always what they seem. Parents should be aware there are motion sensory segments, flashes, and explosive noises.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus parents. How to Train Your Dragon releases in theatres June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Selene W., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

How to Train Your Dragon is the must-see family film of this summer as it not only enchants but SOARS across the big screen!  For those of us who already love the characters in this epic adventure, I am pleased that the live action version is faithful to the original and does not try to re-imagine this world or story.  Not only will this film thrill existing fans but it is a wondrous introduction to a brand new family audience who will want to explore the isle of Berk again and again.

How to Train Your Dragon is a story about a young Viking named Hiccup (Mason Thames) who lives on an island but doesn’t fit the ideals of his Viking village.  He is the son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler) and he desperately wants his father’s attention and approval as well as inclusion among his peers in village society.

Berk has been in a war of survival against the dragons for centuries; and Hiccup defies tradition when, after injuring a dragon, he chooses not to kill it, but rather to heal the terrifying Night Fury dragon he names Toothless.  Their developing friendship and undeniable bond highlights their strength when they work together.   Through their teamwork, Hiccup and Toothless are able to forge a strengthened alliance and future for the Vikings and dragons.

The isle of Berk and the cast of characters richly come to life under the guidance of Dean DeBlois who is the writer, director and an executive producer of this film.  The immersive quality and visual effects in this film are as important as any of the characters.  The cast is notably talented and the story has many delightful characters and humorous situations.  In particular, Gerard Butler, who reprises his voice role from the animated film and really embodies the Viking village culture — I enjoyed his performance immensely.

My favorite character, Astrid (Nico Parker), is fierce, ambitious, and loyal and brings a new dimension to this important role. I have to mention the great performance of the village blacksmith, Gobber (Nick Frost), who is Hiccup’s mentor as he brings such humor, insight and compassion to his role.  Cinematographer Bill Pope brings this amazing world to life along with fantastic costume design, production design, sound, animation and, of course, the visual and special effects throughout the film.  I am thrilled that composer John Powell also reprised his role in creating the soundtrack for this live action adventure of How to Train Your Dragon. The film has an impressive website https://www.welcometoberk.com  that offers an amazing way to explore the isle of Berk and experience the immersive visuals.

The film’s message is that you shouldn’t pretend to be someone that you’re not.  Hiccup makes his journey of self-discovery through his bond with Toothless and together they come to learn that friendship can overcome many obstacles.  They both defy the expectations of their social norms and learn to challenge and change those norms together.  United they both accomplish things that would have been impossible alone.  Be aware that younger children might be frightened by some of the scenes.

I rate How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters June 13, 2025. Definitely don’t miss the opportunity to experience this epic adventure on the big screen.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Eva M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I absolutely love How to Train Your Dragon! It is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that drew me in from the start. This live-action remake takes the heart of the original story and builds on it with strong performances, breathtaking visuals, and a moving musical score. I especially love the bond between Hiccup and Toothless and how it shows the beauty of friendship and trust.

The story takes place in Berk, a Viking village where dragons are seen as dangerous enemies. Hiccup (Mason Thames), the chief’s son, is more thoughtful and inventive than the other Viking teens. When he injures a Night Fury dragon and decides to set it free instead of killing it, everything changes. He secretly builds a friendship with the dragon that he names Toothless, and soon begins to question everything his people believe about dragons.

What stands out most in this film is how real and emotional it feels. Mason Thames gives a heartfelt performance as Hiccup, capturing his awkwardness, intelligence, and bravery.

Toothless is brought to life through amazing CGI and his expressions, movements, and personality make him feel like a real creature that I could easily empathize with. The connection between Hiccup and Toothless is powerful, and I felt no gap between the real people and the CGI world. Gerard Butler returns as Stoick, Hiccup’s father, and brings extra strength to the character. I could clearly see his emotions deepen and mature as the story progressed. Nico Parker plays Astrid with confidence and charms, making her feel like more than just a secondary character. The flying scenes are absolutely breathtaking, especially when paired with John Powell’s sweeping musical score. The visuals — shot in Northern Ireland — add to the epic, adventurous feeling of the story. One of my favorite scenes is Hiccup and Toothless’s first flight together. It’s magical, filled with wonder, and shows just how much they trust each other.

The film’s message is about empathy, courage, and challenging the ideas we are taught. It reminds us that, just because something has always been done a certain way, doesn’t that mean it’s right. The film promotes positive behavior and strong values without feeling overly intentional. There is some action and fighting, but nothing is too intense or inappropriate for kids.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on June 13, 2025. This is one movie you won’t want to miss!

How To Train Your Dragon
By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

How To Train Your Dragon is a rip-roaring fantasy film packed with intricate special effects, a powerful musical score, and plenty of emotion. Twice as thrilling as its animated predecessor, this movie is definitely worth the wait – it had me holding my breath and marveling at the breathtaking sets and scenery.

The film follows Hiccup (Mason Thames), a young Viking eager to prove himself as a dragon fighter. In the midst of a brutal clash between the people of Berk and the dragons, Hiccup receives the chance of a lifetime – capturing a highly-coveted Night Fury named Toothless. But everything changes when he decides to free the dragon. Hiccup soon finds himself deeply conflicted, forced to choose between staying loyal to his family and saving his new friend.

Among the most commendable components of this film are the sets. They are beautifully constructed and bring immense artistic value to the film.

For the most part, the set designers have stayed true to the original animated film, and I adored seeing the beloved town of Berk come to life. The cinematography, which involves quite a bit of motion, comes together with the already-magnificent scenery of Ireland and a moving musical score to produce a masterpiece of fantasy cinema. The precision of the casting by Lucy Bevan is also worth mentioning. Most of the actors, such as Mason Thames, Harry Trevaldwyn and Gabriel Howell, bear a striking resemblance to the animated characters they portray. Additionally, Bevan has cast actors who look almost exactly like older versions of the leads to play their parents. Especially notable are the parents of Astrid (Nico Parker) and Snotlout (Gabriel Howell). All the actors in the film flawlessly exhibit complex emotions and seem almost perfect for their roles, reflecting great casting.

Mason Thames’s acting is phenomenal as Hiccup who is an unusually multi-layered character for a children’s film, struggling with the death of his mother, the desire to please a girl who dislikes him, and his wish to impress his father which conflicts with what he believes is the right thing to do.

I appreciate Thames’s grace in acknowledging all aspects of his character and his ability to display Hiccup’s growth throughout the film.

How To Train Your Dragon is a reminder that we aren’t defined by what other people think of us. Your destiny belongs to you and can’t be dictated by anyone else. Hiccup’s journey demonstrates the importance of following your instincts, doing the right thing and staying true to what you believe. Following your moral compass, even when it could lead to personal loss, like Hiccup does by saving Toothless, will lead you right where you need to be.

I give How To Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The movie comes to theaters on June 13, 2025.

Unstoppable is the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) who was born with one leg but whose indomitable spirit and unbreakable resolve empowered him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams. With the unwavering love and support of his devoted mother Judy (Jennifer Lopez) and the encouragement of his coaches, Anthony fights through adversity to earn a spot on the Arizona State Wrestling team. But it will demand everything he has, physically and mentally, to achieve his ultimate quest to become an NCAA Champion.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.” See her full review below.

Unstoppable
By Zoë C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.

Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) is a wrestler who’s missing a leg. He comes from a dysfunctional family as his father is abusive and comes and goes as he pleases. The story begins at Robles’ senior year of high school as he is applying to colleges while competing in many wrestling matches. He takes the daring choice to walk onto ASU, one of the top schools for wrestling. Not sure if he has what it takes or not, but with support from his siblings, Anthony makes the team and finds his place. He is faced with the match of his life as he competes with his biggest opponent his senior year of college. To Anthony this match means more than just winning, it is an opportunity for people to look up to him for who he is, not what he’s missing.

This beautiful story is accompanied by a fantastic cast. Jharrel Jerome’s portrayal of Anthony is the heart of this film. He has such great dynamics throughout the film, which truly demonstrate Anthony’s personal and emotional growth, along with his physical growth throughout his training. The stunts are done by Anthony Robles himself, making this film all that more special. Jenifer Lopez, as Anthony’s mom (Judy), also delivers a great performance. Her character shows a different side of Anthony’s story – together the two actors have a lovely chemistry which is so vital to the story.

Micheal Peña, who is a Latino Hollywood gem, plays Anthony’s coach in the film, and is great as always. Don Cheadle, who plays Anthony’s college coach, is another amazing actor who delivers a terrific performance.

On the surface, the film seems to be a typical sports drama; however director William Goldenberg allows the story to shine on its own. I love when stories show awareness of unknown heroes; I am unfamiliar with wrestling, but watching this film was so inspiring and uplifting. I also love that it goes beyond being a stereotypical story of an athlete striving to reach to the top. I also really enjoyed the cinematography by Salvatore Totino. The cinematography reflects the way Anthony feels internally – his lows are shown in varied gray and cool tones; his highs are brightly and vibrantly colored, which brings life to his story.

The film’s message is to persevere and fight for your dreams. Be aware that there are some violent scenes and strong language.

I give Unstoppable 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It is available to watch now in theaters or on Amazon Prime.

We’re excited to share updates on our year-end fundraising campaign. In August, we set a goal of raising $55,000, and thanks to your generous support, we’ve already reached $37,736 – which is 69% of our goal!

We need your help to reach our final goal of $55,000. KIDS FIRST! needs your support!

Your donation will directly support our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program, empowering young people to become the next generation of media leaders.

Inspiring Stories from Our Alumni

We’re thrilled to share the stories of three talented KIDS FIRST! alumni:

• Ryan Rivera: A former KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Ryan’s passion for film led him to Connecticut College, where he’s actively involved in award-winning film projects.
• Talia Jacnuk: Talia’s experience with KIDS FIRST! ignited her love for filmmaking. She’s currently pursuing her passion at USC and working on various media projects.
• Carlee Spagnolo: A recent KIDS FIRST! alumna, Carlee is studying Environmental Science and hopes to combine her love for film with her passion for environmental issues.

At KIDS FIRST!, we don’t just train young minds – we launch careers. We transform enthusiastic tweens and teens into media professionals – future journalists, YouTubers, influencers, and beyond.

But it’s more than just titles. We give them real-world experience through interviews with industry talent, both on and off-screen. From filmmakers to actors, they learn the ropes and prepare for their future, whether it’s in entertainment or not.

The skills they gain are invaluable: meeting deadlines, crafting clear communication, and captivating audiences online and in person. These are skills that benefit them in any field they choose.

We need your support!

Your contribution helps us continue this crucial work. We’re nearing our year-end goal, which unlocks matching donations from generous supporters.

Every contribution counts! Whether online, through PayPal, Venmo, or a mailed check, your generosity makes a difference. Donate now: https://fnd.us/kidsfirst?ref=sh_bCo1e4

Thank you for believing in the power of young voices. Wishing you a joyful fall and holiday season!

Sincerely,

Ranny and the KIDS FIRST! Team

@kidsfirstmedia

Ryan M. Invites you to support KIDS FIRST! Film Critics.

♬ original sound – Kidsfirstmedia – Kidsfirstmedia

Melody Brooks is navigating sixth grade as a nonverbal wheelchair user who has cerebral palsy. With the help of some assistive technology and her devoted allies, Melody shows that what she has to say is more important than how she says it.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper… I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.” Ayra B. adds, “One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.” See their full reviews below.

Out Of My Mind
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper that is about family and friendship.  I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.

Born with cerebral palsy, Melody (Phoebe-Rae Taylor) is nonverbal, and she is placed in a preschool level remedial academic program where her greatest source of stimulation comes from listening to Judy Blume audiobooks. When Dr. Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) recognizes that Melody’s cognitive abilities exceed what the class offers, she advocates for Melody to join Mr. Dimming’s (Michael Chernus) class, which puts Melody on track for the life she has always dreamed of. Best of all, it puts her on a path to receive an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device so she can finally have the opportunity to make friends. But, like her journey thus far, nothing comes easy.

I really like how the film is told through Melody’s first-person narrative, with Jennifer Aniston as Melody’s voice, since Melody’s favorite TV show is Friends. Jennifer Aniston delivers a lot of heart, love, and laughter in the role, which is paired perfectly with Phoebe-Rae Taylor’s emotional performance as Melody. I was so invested in watching Melody’s dreams come true, but also feeling for her parents Chuck and Diane (Luke Kirby, Rosemarie DeWitt).  You can feel the struggle they have been fighting for their daughter’s future and wanting what is best for her.  I also love the next door neighbor, Mrs. V (Judith Light), who often helps Melody and her family.  You can feel the love Mrs. V has for Melody through the screen.  Mrs. V has some great moments and she always makes me smile. If you enjoy reading, I recommend reading the book Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.  Also available is the sequel, Out of My Heart, where Melody goes to camp for the first time and Out of My Dreams where Melody travels on an airplane for the first time and visits London.

Out of My Mind highlights the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to see the vibrant inner world of people with disabilities, particularly those who are non-verbal like Melody, who struggles with cerebral palsy but possesses a brilliant mind.

I give Out of My Mind 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  You can watch Out of My Mind on Disney beginning November 22, 2024.

Out of My Mind
By Arya B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Out of My Mind is a coming-of-age film about a 12-year-old non-verbal girl with cerebral palsy – she must stand up for herself in order to have the same rights as other kids her age.

The storyline follows Melody (Phoebe-rae Taylor) who is born with cerebral palsy and can’t walk or speak. Although she is extremely bright and understands complex topics similar to those her age, she has limited opportunities to learn more advanced things. All her life, she attended school in the same special education classroom since kindergarten because of her disability. Melody desperately wants the chance to be able to go to school in a regular classroom with other sixth graders. Although her mom Diane (Rosemarie Dewitt) and her dad Chuck (Luke Kirby) are both caring and dedicated parents, they disagree about her ability to learn and survive in a regular sixth grade classroom.

Early in the film, Melody is given the chance to attend a regular sixth grade classroom with a visiting doctor Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) at her side. Melody falls in love with the classroom experience because she can understand what is being taught and also makes a new friend Rose (Maria Nash). However, Melody cannot raise her hand to answer questions because she communicates by pointing to letters or to her surroundings. The classroom teacher, Mr. Dimming (Michael Chernus), becomes frustrated and does not want Melody there. The main plot of the film involves a Whiz Kids competition in which the four smartest kids in the class compete on a national level.

However, Mr. Dimming refuses to grade Melody’s exam because he does not think she can compete. The movie shows the various obstacles in Melody’s way: fighting to stay in the sixth-grade classroom, fighting to be on the Whiz Kids team, and fighting to make friends with other sixth graders and show them she is just as capable and interesting.  One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.

The film’s message is that people won’t know what you are capable of unless you show them. Melody is brave enough to advocate for herself being in a regular sixth grade classroom, which allows others to see she belongs there.  A few scenes demonstrate inappropriate behavior that may not be suitable for young children.

I give Out of My Mind 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Out of My Mind when it releases on Disney+ on November 22, 2024.

Dear Friends,

A Matching Gift Opportunity: I am thrilled to announce a $25,000 matching gift to KIDS FIRST! This means every dollar you donate will be doubled, up to $25,000.

The Coalition for Quality Children’s Media (CQCM), home to the KIDS FIRST! Film Critic program and KIDS FIRST! Film Festival, is seeking your support to bridge a critical funding gap between now and the end of the year.

We have a matching opportunity!  An anonymous donor will match your donation, up to $25,000.  This means your gift will have twice the impact on empowering young media consumers.

Since 1991, KIDS FIRST! has been at the forefront of media literacy, empowering young people to become discerning media consumers. Our unique approach centers on the voices of children, providing them with a platform to review films as they develop essential life skills. We have a team of 65 kids, ages 9 through 22, who attend press screenings, press junkets and film premieres. They review the latest films rated PG13 or younger and interview celebrities. Their reviews reach over 5 million people every week through the KIDS FIRST! website, blogs, social media and partnerships with like-minded publications. As one alumna, Samantha Marcus, recently told us:

“I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of California, San Diego with a BA inInternational Business. My journey toward the entertainment industry began with a pivotal role at KIDS FIRST! in 2016, where I worked as a radio show host and film critic. This rewarding experience provided me with a unique glimpse into the entertainment world, sparking my passion for marketing and business within this vibrant field. Witnessing Ranny Levy’s remarkable leadership and success at KIDS FIRST! deeply inspired me, positively shaping my professional path, encouraging me to find my voice and make the world a better place. 

Additionally, KIDS FIRST! curates a collection of indie and student films that we provide to film festivals, children’s museums and others that host screenings for youth and families. We have 30+ partners all across the US, plus 4 international partners in Ukraine, Pakistan, Uganda and India. These festivals focus on deep cultural, environmental and sociological issues such as environmental solutions, cross-cultural understanding, and empowering marginalized communities. Our festival screenings will reach over 500,000 kids and parents in 2025.

The young people we work with are truly remarkable. They aren’t just talking about making a difference; they’re doing it. I thought that you would resonate with the goals of this organization and be honored to help support its cause.

Become a partner!  Help us double our impact!  Donate today and have your gift matched, up to $25,000 at https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal. Alternatively, you can send a check to the address below.

Your donation supports:

• KIDS FIRST! Film Critics: Empowering young voices, reaching millions.
• KIDS FIRST! Film Festival: Inspiring change through film, reaching half a million.
• Education: Training the next generation of media critics and advocates.

With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

SKIDS FIRST! Team