KIDS FIRST! News

Five years post-Jurassic World: Dominion (2022), an expedition braves isolated equatorial regions to extract DNA from three massive prehistoric creatures for a groundbreaking medical breakthrough.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Jurassic World Rebirth is an action-packed, keep-you-on your-toes movie with a great plot and cast. I really like the storyline; the film kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, except for the beginning, which is a bit too slow.” Charlotte L. adds, “The CGI is incredible, especially during the fight or action scenes, which isn’t always the case with CGI. The dinosaurs are very realistic. Some scenes really had me on the edge of my seat; however, other scenes felt too long and drawn out.” See their full reviews below.

Jurassic World Rebirth
By Zoë C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Jurassic World Rebirth is an action-packed, keep-you-on your-toes movie with a great plot and cast. I’m not too familiar with the franchise, but I like how this film keeps the story simple yet very entertaining.

The film opens by introducing Zora (Scarlett Johansson), Dr. Henry (Jonathan Bailey), Dunkin (Mahershala Ali), Martin (Rupert Friend), and a few others who travel to a strictly forbidden island to collect DNA samples from the dinosaurs living there. These samples are meant to help elongate human life and could earn them trillions of dollars. While on this dangerous mission, they encounter another mysterious group with their own intentions. The mission tests them in more ways than you’d expect: they’re forced to think quickly, get chased by dinosaurs and even do some chasing of their own.

Scarlett Johansson as skilled covert operations expert Zora Bennett in JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH, directed by Gareth Edwards.

I really like the storyline; the film kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, except for the beginning, which is a bit too slow. Plus, it sometimes feels just too intense – every ten minutes the characters are thrown into a new life-threatening situation. I appreciate how screenwriter David Koepp kept the plot straightforward and entertaining, though at times it is too predictable. The acting stands out. I love Scarlett Johansson’s performance as a strong, witty female leader. She adds a funny and interesting dynamic to the group. I also really like Mahershala Ali’s performance and wish that he had more screen time, because it feels like his character is overlooked for much of the movie. Jonathan Bailey, as the “good doctor,” brings a real sense of wonder to his role. His awe toward the dinosaurs reflects how I felt as an audience member, which made it easy to connect with him.

Since I haven’t seen the other Jurassic World films, I don’t have anything to compare this one to, but I still enjoyed how it introduces new dinosaurs.

L to R: Scarlett Johansson as skilled covert operations expert Zora Bennett and Jonathan Bailey as paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis in JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH, directed by Gareth Edwards.

The island is home to cross-bred species, which makes the visuals especially interesting. Director Gareth Edwards brings a unique style, delivering strong action sequences and impressive effects. The cinematography by John Mathieso makes the film feel massive and immersive. This is a solid ending to the franchise (with eight films total). I’m not sure if longtime fans will consider this a true “rebirth,” but it’s definitely entertaining.

The film’s message is to always do what’s right and not let selfishness take over.

I give Jurassic World: Rebirth 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can catch it in theaters starting July 2, 2025.

Jurassic World: Rebirth
By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14

I like Jurassic World Rebirth because the dinosaurs are realistic and the cast is fantastic.

Jurassic World Rebirth is the fourth movie in the Jurassic World franchise. It follows Zora Bennet (Scarlett Johansson) and her team as they embark on a dangerous journey to collect DNA samples from dinosaurs. Along the way they meet a family stranded in the ocean after their boat capsized and decide to bring them along.

L to R: Scarlett Johansson is skilled covert operations expert Zora Bennett and Jonathan Bailey is paleontologist Dr. Henry Loomis JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH, directed by Gareth Edwards.

The CGI is incredible, especially during the fight or action scenes, which isn’t always the case with CGI. The dinosaurs are very realistic. Some scenes really had me on the edge of my seat; however, other scenes felt too long and drawn out. And then, some scenes suffer from poor acting. For example, in one scene where the family’s boat capsizes, some characters show no fear on their faces or in their voices. Scarlett Johansson plays her character, Zora, exceptionally well. Her movements look realistic and her emotions are clear and believable. At one point, when she nearly falls off a boat with dinosaurs encircling it, her fear feels genuine and her fall looks real. Another aspect of the movie that I like is that the main cast works together as a great team.

They have a leader, Zora, the newbie, Dr. Henry Loomis (Jonathan Bailey), the betrayer, Martin Krebs (Rupert Friend) and the guy who knows what’s going on, Duncan Kincaid (Mahershala Ali). Their chemistry on camera is outstanding; one would think that they actually know and work together in real life.

The film’s message is to work for what is right, not for money.

I give Jurassic World Rebirth 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 2, 2025.

In this brand-new family movie, the world’s greatest explorer and her friends will trek through the perilous dangers of the Amazonian jungle in search of the ancient treasure of Sol Dorado to prevent it from falling into enemy hands.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Llana O. comments, “Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is a family-friendly, adventurous live action film that captures the essence of the iconic show Dora the Explorer. The acting of Dora (Samantha Lorraine) and Diego (Jacob Rodriguez), the unique set designs and the film’s homage to elements of the original show make this movie worthwhile. Josephine K. adds, “This film is exhilarating! Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is an adventure comedy that is both exciting and thrilling. I like that it is nostalgic and uses many references from the original series.” Madison M. wraps it up with, “The backgrounds look very magical which fits in with the story. Since the film takes place in Colombia, they speak Spanish part of the time, like the people that live there.” See their full reviews below.

Dora And The Search For Sol Dorado
By Ilana Oconer, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Pictured: L-R: DORA (Samantha Lorraine) and BOOTS (voiced by Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias) in the movie DORA AND THE SEARCH FOR SOL DORADO on NICKELODEON and streaming on PARAMOUNT+. Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is a family-friendly, adventurous live action film that captures the essence of the iconic show Dora the Explorer. Most notably, the acting of Dora (Samantha Lorraine) and Diego (Jacob Rodriguez), the unique, ancient set designs and the film’s homage to certain elements of the original show are what make this movie worthwhile.

The film follows Dora, an ambitious explorer who goes on a treacherous journey in the Amazon to search the mythical site of Sol Dorado alongside her friends and family. They must face the dangers that lurk in the wild forest and the enemies that cross their paths in search of ancient treasure. Ultimately, their goal is to navigate Sol Dorado before their enemies wreak havoc.

The main cast members are Dora (Samantha Lorraine), Diego (Jacob Rodriguez), Naiya (Mariana Garzón Toro) Sonny (Acston Luca Porto), Camilla the Crusader (Daniella Pineda), and Boots (Gabriel Iglesias). Samantha Lorraine accurately emulates Dora through her ability to resemble her cartoony mannerisms and by maintaining a bubbly and optimistic personality. As she portrays a teenage version of Dora, she still captures her timeless, childlike spirit in addition to adding a level of maturity. More so, her performance pays tribute to the original source material all while adding her own flair to the character.

Pictured: L-R: DORA (Samantha Lorainne) and DIEGO (Jacob Rodriguez) in DORA AND THE SEARCH FOR SOL DORADO on NICKELODEON and streaming on PARAMOUNT+. Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

Whenever she interacts with her co-star Jacob Rodriguez, who plays Diego, their relationship feels close and authentic as they have great chemistry with each other. Additionally, Gabriel Iglesias who voices Boots acts as the comedic relief in the film. His hilarious voice acting and his conversations with his best friend, Dora, add to the heart of the movie. Even the use of CGI for Boots is flawless as he appears both realistic and animated at the same time. The color grading is quite fitting as there are yellow and orange tints of color that enhance the film. The car chases and action sequences that involve Dora, her cohorts and the enemies, are well choreographed, especially when Daniella Pineda and her stunt double perform Camilla the Crusader’s stunts and fight scenes – they are achieved with great finesse and panache. The set design is intricately constructed and immersive; the use of practical effects like the caves and the booby traps add to the story’s believability.

The film’s message urges viewers to recognize the importance of teamwork when facing trials and tribulations.

I give Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado 4.0 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is available Paramount + and Nickelodeon beginning July 2, 2025.

Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado
By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

L-R: SONNY (Acston Lucas Porto), DIEGO (Jacob Rodriguez), DORA (Samantha Lorraine) and NAIYA (Mariana Garzón Toro). Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

This film is exhilarating! Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is an adventure comedy that is both exciting and thrilling. I like that it is nostalgic and uses many references from the original series. Lastly, I like that both Spanish and English are used throughout the film.

The story follows Dora (Samantha Lorraine) and her cousin Diego (Jacob Rodriguez) who have been explorers their whole lives in their jungle home. On Dora’s ongoing search for Sol Dorado, she finds all kinds of ancient tools and treasures to help her on her quest. But where she finds clues she finds trouble and becomes caught in a race against her childhood idol (Daniella Pineda) and a group of vicious mercenaries. Dora embarks on a journey with Diego, his ex (Mariana Garzon Toro), and her younger brother Sonny (Acston Luca Porto).

This film is marvelous. I love the bond that grows between the characters and the fact that it is a thrilling and exciting story. I like that each character has its own strengths and contributes to each puzzle. This film is also very nostalgic and adds bits of the original series to the movie – like Dora breaking the fourth wall as she talks to the viewers as well as playing the original song at the end of the credits. Another thing I like is that both English and Spanish are used throughout the film. By doing this, the film is more accessible and interesting for people of varying backgrounds.

L-R: SONNY (Acston Lucas Porto), NAIYA (Mariana Garzón Toro) and DIEGO (Jacob Rodriguez).Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

I also like that this film teaches viewers about Incan culture and history. My favorite part is the fight scene in the tomb with Camila and the mercenary because it is tense, exciting and well-choreographed. My favorite character is Naiya because she is pessimistic, but smart and very resourceful.

The film’s message is that teamwork and friendship can help you to achieve your goals. There are also themes of redemption and unconditional support, even when loved ones’ dreams differ from yours.

I give Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can find it on Paramount Plus and Nickelodeon starting July 2, 2025.

Dora And The Search For Sol Dorado
By Madison M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

L-R: DIEGO (Jacob Rodriguez) and DORA (Samantha Lorainne). Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

I did not enjoy Dora And The Search For Sol Dorado because the story feels too fast paced and the reasons that Camila The Crusader (Daniella Pineda), is the main villain are very unclear.

This film celebrates the 25th anniversary of Dora the Explorer. The storyline follows a 16-year-old version of Dora (Samantha Lorraine), who loves to explore. She explores a place in the jungle and loses her map, but finds a key.  Dora’s cousin, Diego, shows her where her favourite explorer works and she starts working there and befriends the tour bus driver, Naiya (Mariana Garzon Toro). Dora and Diego find a mythical bracelet, which leads them to trouble and they go to where Naiya and their adventure through the Amazonian jungle begins.

I like the combination of live action and animation. Boots The Monkey (Gabriel Iglesias) and Camilla’s pet fox are well animated; they look real, even though they are not. I was not so impressed by the actors’ performances, but there are many funny parts in the film.

L-R: DORA (Samantha Lorainne) and CAMILA (Daniella Pineda). Photo Credit: Pablo Arellano Spataro/Nickelodeon/Paramount+ ©2024, Paramount Global. All Rights Reserved

The backgrounds look very magical which fits in with the story. Since the film takes place in Colombia, they speak Spanish part of the time, like the people that live there.

Another thing that I like is that Naiya and her brother Sunny (Acston Luca Porto) represent a sibling bond that I can connect with myself. While they show playful rivalry you can tell how much they care for each other.  I found Dora’s behavior toward Diego rude and did not like that she does not listen to Diego, but focuses on the adventure.

The story’s message is keep on going even if you’re going through a hard time you still have time to change it.

I give Dora And The Search For Sol Dorado 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases on Paramount+ and Nickelodeon July 2, 2025.

Elio, a space fanatic underdog with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure when he is inadvertently beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide. Mistakenly identified as Earth’s ambassador to the rest of the universe, he starts to form new bonds with eccentric aliens, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions all while discovering who he’s truly meant to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “Elio is one of Disney’s and Pixar’s greatest hits yet.  A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won’t soon be forgotten.” Zoe C., adds, “What an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they’ve gone above and beyond with Elio. This film is something truly special – it’s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging.” Zoey F. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is about the importance of finding your true family. Elio shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that Elio includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.” See their full reviews and interview with Yonas Kibreab, who plays Elio, below.

Elio
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

Elio is one of Disney’s and Pixar’s greatest hits yet.  A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won’t soon be forgotten.

This film follows a boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab) as he tries to make contact with aliens, believing no one wants him on Earth.  When he finally does, he is greeted by countless species, and starts making friends left and right, but it’s not all fun and games.

Lord Grygon (Brad Garrett) intends to crash the party, and he’s not taking no for an answer.  If Elio wants to stay, he and his new bestie, Glordon (Remy Edgerly), must find a way to reason with the warlord, keep the community safe and, along the way, find his place in the universe.

TAKING UP SPACE – Ambassador Tegman (far right), Ambassador Helix (second from right), Ambassador Turais (third from right) and Ambassador Questa (left of Glordon). Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

The concept of an alien hangout leaves much room for creativity, and the production team brought their best – the result is nothing short of extraordinary.  No matter where I looked in this feature, everything was bursting with color.  The animation is full and complete, with even the little details standing out, leaving me in awe of the work put into creating this film.  Elio and Glordon’s friendship is a source of constant humor, with the duo getting into all sorts of adventures – big ones like jumping from a high loft into a whirlpool, or just enjoying a nice cup of glorp while watching the twinkling cosmos.

It may seem challenging for Elio’s life on Earth to compare with his time in space, but it is a necessary comparison.  Zoe Saldaña portrays Elio’s aunt Olga, who is trying to show Elio that life happens down here, not in the stars.  Though it seems to put a damper on his fun, it captures the sense that you can’t have the ability to play without putting in the work.

SPACE FANATIC – Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

The plot is simpler and more concise than some of Pixar’s other movies, but in no way less put together.  Twists and cliffhangers still abound without being needlessly complicated, further securing Elio as a feature to remember.

This film’s message is that you are never alone.  Though you may not get aliens asking for a play-date anytime soon, there is always someone there to talk with you, walk with you, and just be with you. Note that there are few scenes of space violence, and one where Elio is about to get beat up by a few kids from Earth.

I give Elio 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18. Elio releases in theaters June 20, 2025.

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

SPACING OUT – 11-year-old Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

What an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they’ve gone above and beyond with Elio. This film is something truly special – it’s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging. Beyond that, the story line is truly a roller coaster of emotions in the best way possible.

The story follows a young boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab), who is navigating the world after the loss of both of his parents. He now lives with his aunt (Zoe Saldaña), but struggles with feelings of isolation and not fitting in. Elio is completely fascinated by aliens and hopes to be abducted by them as he believes there is no place for him on earth and thinks that maybe someone in space could love or understand him.

AMBASSADORS ABOUND – Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). (from left): Ambassador Tegmen (voice of Matthias Schweighöfer), Ambassador Questa (voice of Jameela Jamil), Ambassador Helix (voice of Brandon Moon) and Ambassador Naos (voice of Atsuko Okatsuka). Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” opens in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

When a mysterious message from outer space calls for Elio he finds himself transported into the “Galactaverse,” a vibrant intergalactic world full of curious creatures, unexpected friendships, and endless adventure. For the first time, Elio feels like he belongs, but as he builds connections and discovers his place among the stars, he must also confront the question of where and with whom he truly belongs.

One of my favorite aspects of this film is its storyline. The plot is surprisingly deep and emotionally grounded, especially for a film intended for children. Pixar often handles complex themes, but Elio takes a bold step by addressing grief, identity, and the universal desire to feel understood. The film doesn’t shy away from heavier emotions and instead embraces them with empathy and honesty. This aspect of the story adds a layer of emotion and connection to humanity. It’s common for kids to feel as if they don’t fit in and, the way this film portrays this, is so beautiful. Elio portrays that inner struggle in a way that feels both accessible and profound. Visually, the animation is out of this world. I love how the animators use color and lighting to reflect Elio’s emotional journey.

A COSMIC MISADVENTURE – From left to right: Ambassador Questa (voice of Jameela Jamil), Ooooo (voice of Shirley Henderson) and Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

Earth is portrayed with a subdued, muted palette, symbolizing Elio’s sadness and disconnection. While the Galactaverse is filled with vivid colors that reflect the excitement and comfort Elio feels in this new world. The creative designs of the alien characters and settings are incredibly fun to watch. The voice acting is also amazing. Yonas Kibreab, who voices Elio, brings such authenticity and warmth to the role. You can feel every ounce of Elio’s hope, fear, and curiosity throughout his performance. One of my favorite characters is Glordon, an adorable alien, voiced by Remy Edgerly. Glordon is Elio’s first real friend in the Galactaverse, and Edgerly’s sweet and gentle voice makes the character instantly lovable. Their friendship is a beautiful part of the story and adds so much heart to the film.

I love the message of this film: there’s a place for everyone, you just have to allow yourself to find it.

I give Elio 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. You can catch Elio in theaters beginning June 20, 2025. Don’t miss it!

Elio
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

CONNECTIONS – Featuring the voices of Yonas Kibreab and Zoe Saldaña as Elio and Aunt Olga, respectively, Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

I enjoyed watching the movie Elio with its outstanding voice acting, animation, and themes. The movie is outstanding except for a minor plot hole.

The storyline follows Elio (Yonas Kibreab), a creative boy whose passion is trying to get abducted by space aliens. After Elio’s parents suffer a tragedy, Elio moves in with his strict Aunt Olga (Zoe Saldaña) and continues trying to fulfill his goal he writes “aliens abduct me” in lights in the sand. Elio’s prayers are answered and he is taken to another galaxy where he joins them under the false “Leader of Earth” title. He ends up negotiating with the ruthless Lord Grigon (Remy Edgerly), who is trying to destroy the whole galaxy, but Elio has a trick up his sleeve and not only does Elio need to please the aliens, but he needs to figure out how to stop his aunt from being suspicious.

EXPLORING THE COMMUNIVERSE – Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab). Directed by Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi and Adrian Molina, and produced by Mary Alice Drumm, Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2024 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

The whole movie, Elio really feels like a breath of fresh air. Not only is every character executed well, but they do so without being too “corny.” Elio is a very relatable character, and he is very fun to watch! He teaches the audience what it feels like to not to fit in and want to belong. Elio is on a journey of finding his people. I really enjoyed the humor in this film. The banter between Elio and his aunt is outstanding. A memorable incident is when Aunt Olga pulls out a parenting book and asks Elio to explain which emotion he was feeling. Elio is extremely humorous without being too repetitive or corny. A part of the film that I feel is underdeveloped is the plot, especially Elio’s relationship with his aunt. At the beginning of the film, she is not giving Elio enough attention or love.

Then, later, when Elio returns from space, she is suddenly the perfect mother-figure, and everything is alright. It feels that the relationship is rushed and it is unclear where exactly Elio and Aunt Olga stand with each other.

AMBASSADORS – Elio (voice of Yonas Kibreab), Mira (far left), Ambassador Helix (third from left), Ambassador Questa (center), Ambassador Tegman (third from right) and Ambassador Turais (second from right). Disney and Pixar’s “Elio” releases in theaters June 20, 2025. © 2025 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

When Elio is gone, we do not see Aunt Olga missing him at all, but it seems that the audience is supposed to assume that she did. Aside from that, the plot runs pretty true.

The film’s message is about the importance of finding your true family. Elio shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that Elio includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.

I give Elio 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It opens in theaters on June 20, 2025.

Ten-year-old Angelo dreams of becoming an explorer and a zoologist. When he hits the road with his family to visit his beloved granny, his distracted parents leave him behind at a rest stop. Left to his own devices, Angelo decides to cut through the forest in search of his family. He enters a dark and mysterious world inhabited by strange creatures, some friendlier than others.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoey F. comments, “Into the Wonderwoods is an extremely worthwhile watch. It explores adventure, friendship, fighting, and magic. My favorite aspect of this movie is the animation. I give a big shoutout to the animators Coline Veith, Samuel Devynk, and Michael Tenner Wijaya Oei who created this film.” Ariel K. adds, “This film is a great pick for anyone who loves fantasy, magical creatures, and stories about being brave. One of the things I like best about Into The Wonderwoods  is how creative Angelo’s world is. The forest feels like a place from a dream, filled with ogres, grumpy clouds, and even a creature made of grass and dirt.” Anna Clara B. wraps it up with, “Into The Wonderwoods is a magical animated film that really engaged me. I like how the film, in addition to having memorable characters, is super involved with current problems and resolutions.”  See their full reviews below.

Into the Wonderwoods
By Zoey F, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Into the Wonderwoods is an extremely worthwhile watch. It explores adventure, friendship, fighting, and magic.

The storyline follows Angelo who dreams of becoming an adventurer, but sadly can only embark on imaginary ones. His family doesn’t take him seriously; it seems like the only thing he can do is be a “slaphead,” the nickname he earned from his brother, Leo. Tragedy strikes when Angelo’s Gran (Yolande Moreua) falls fatally ill and the family takes a long journey to Gran’s house. Somehow, the journey distracts them, and no one seems to notice that Angelo is left behind in a magical forest. Not far away, Ultra (José Garcia), a totalitarian space alien is determined to find the grail of eternal life –so much so that he is threatening to destroy the forest. Not only does Angelo need to stop him, but he also needs to figure out how to catch up with his family and see Gran.

My favorite aspect of this movie is the animation. I give a big shoutout to the animators Coline Veith, Samuel Devynk, and Michael Tenner Wijaya Oei who created this film. I particularly love the magical forest because it really puts “wonder” into “Wonderwoods.” I also love all the characters in this movie. I like that the main villain, Ultra, is also a misunderstood funny guy. His humor makes the movie a billion times more fun to watch! Another great character is Angelo. He is an adventurer at heart, but at times he struggles and doesn’t believe in himself. As he slowly becomes the hero of the woods, the audience sees him grow in confidence. This is an extremely important theme to communicate to people of all ages, although the movie is primarily geared to a younger audience.

The film’s message is to value yourself and be your own soldier. We see this explored as Angelo decides to follow his dream and takes a stand that no one will define him. Please be advised that this movie includes minor profanity and flashing images that may be overwhelming to photosensitive viewers.

I give Into the Wonderwoods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD June 24, 2025.

Into The Wonderwoods
By Ariel K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I really liked Into The Wonderwoods because it is fun, imaginative, and full of adventure that kept me interested the whole time!

The story revolves around a 10-year-old boy named Angelo who dreams of becoming a brave adventurer. When his family goes on a road trip to visit his sick grandma, something unexpected happens – they accidentally leave him behind at a rest stop. Instead of waiting for help, Angelo decides to take matters into his own hands and cuts through the mysterious forest in the direction of his grandma’s house. While on his journey, Angelo meets all kinds of strange creatures – some friendly, some not-so-friendly. Angelo has to overcome challenges in order to find his granny.

This film is a great pick for anyone who loves fantasy, magical creatures, and stories about being brave. One of the things I like best about Into The Wonderwoods  is how creative Angelo’s world is. The forest feels like a place from a dream, filled with ogres, grumpy clouds, and even a creature made of grass and dirt. He’s my favorite. I also like how the story shows that being brave doesn’t mean not being scared – it means facing your fears. Angelo doesn’t have any superpowers, just his quick thinking and kind heart, which makes it easy to cheer him on.

The background music adds to the magical feeling, especially during the more intense scenes when Leo is being chased or trying to solve a mystery.

The animation is colorful and detailed, making every part of the forest feel alive. The effects are amazing and really stand out. The exposition is easy to understand and follow along. My favorite part is when the creature made of grass eats a bomb. If there was one thing I would change in this movie it’s that Angelo says “mommy” too much and that it is weird how the small ogre girl Zaza kisses Angelo all the time and talks about him being her boyfriend.

Into the Wonderwoods is a heartwarming, exciting story that mixes adventure, magic, and friendship. It shows that even when things go wrong, we can find courage inside ourselves and maybe even discover a little wonder along the way.

I give Into The Wonderwoods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. It is available on VOD beginning June 24, 2025.

Into The Wonderwoods
By Anna Clara B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Into The Wonderwoods is a magical animated film that really engaged me. I like how the film, in addition to having memorable characters, is super involved with current problems and resolutions.

The storyline is about Angelo (Dario Hardouin-Spurio), a 10-year-old boy who dreams of being an adventurer. His family doesn’t take him seriously. His dreams are high, but unexpected things happen and the solution depends on the little boy’s determination and sense of adventure.

The film’s animation is wonderful, with great camera angles and adorable supernatural characters, including the forest itself.

For example there is a shiny mythical creature, like a firefly, that calls the boy. Not only do all the characters move, but the entire forest moves as well and that enchanted me, in part because it induces the boy to follow the story. I like that the film deals with serious issues, such as deforestation, in a way that everyone can understand, but particularly children. For example, we see an animal happily flying and it comes across these things falling from a spaceship and it gets scared – both the animal and the place are destroyed.

The story is very intriguing; I could really relate to the characters and become empathetic with their situation. For example, his family takes a long journey and Angelo’s parents get distracted and Angelo gets left behind in a magical forest – he doesn’t know what to do, because he is just a child. During that scene, I was intrigued by his situation and wondered what Angelo would do. But Angelo comes through and becomes as brave and adventurous as he is in his dreams. The adventures are fundamental to his development and make him stronger and braver throughout the film, just as he dreamed. The background music is essential to the film. When Angelo is in the backlands the music relates to the location and makes us dive into the scene along with him. My favorite part is when Angelo is watching something with the other animals; the scene is in black and white which gives it a vintage vibe, bringing to light an interesting era, like the beginning of the world of animation.

The film’s message is to remember to dream and not pollute the environment. Don’t let anyone take your dreams away from you.

I give Into The Wonderwoods 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film releases on VOD June 24, 2025.

Dubbed “the greatest that never was,” Sonny Hayes was FORMULA 1’s most promising phenomenon of the 1990s until an accident on the track nearly ended his career. Thirty years later, he’s a nomadic racer-for-hire when he’s approached by his former teammate Ruben Cervantes, owner of a struggling FORMULA 1 team that is on the verge of collapse. Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one last shot at saving the team and being the best in the world. He’ll drive alongside Joshua Pearce, the team’s hotshot rookie intent on setting his own pace. But as the engines roar, Sonny’s past catches up with him and he finds that in FORMULA 1, your teammate is your fiercest competition—and the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Rayce S., comments, “F1® The Movie is really good with some of the best cinematography I’ve ever seen; and the way the movie looks isn’t the only thing to rave about, there’s also great characters and terrific performances…The film’s message is that without teamwork you cannot accomplish anything.” See his full review below.

F1® The Movie
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

F1® The Movie is really good with some of the best cinematography I’ve ever seen; and the way the movie looks isn’t the only thing to rave about, there’s also great characters and terrific performances.

The storyline follows Sunny Haze (Brad Pitt), a veteran driver who suffered an injury early in his career, which halted his chances of going professional. Now, given the opportunity to perform on the biggest stage, he mentors the newest prodigy.

I really love the opening scene because it immediately sets the tone for the film and its overall theme. You can basically anticipate the whole film from the opening scene, which is foreshadowing.

The cinematography is outstanding; I love all the different shots, especially the point of view from inside the driver’s seat which lets you experience what it’s like to be in a Formula 1 race car.

I enjoyed all the characters and performances of the actors. Sunny Hayes (Brad Pitt) is the heart of this film and Pitt gives a well-rounded performance. Javier Barden is a great addition to the cast as Ruben and he brings a funny tone to the movie but also a serious one where he sets the stakes for the entire story. The standout performance for me is Joshua Pierce (Damson Idris).

He makes you hate his character for a while, and then also makes you like him. I liked every moment he was on screen, but that could be biased because he is one of my favorite actors. But his character goes through a great arc throughout the film.

The film’s message is that without teamwork you cannot accomplish anything. Teamwork matters in car racing as you need to rely on your pit crew and other drivers to help you succeed. You can’t do it all by yourself.

I give F1® The Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on June 27, 2025.