KIDS FIRST! News

A thousand years ago, one boy with a dream of becoming a great warrior is abducted with his sister and taken to a land far away from home. Thrown into a world where greed and injustice rule all, Bilal finds the courage to raise his voice and make a change. Inspired by true events, this is a story of a real hero who earned his remembrance in time and history. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Morgan B. comments, “This film sets the bar for jaw dropping animation! The fight scenes and the flying eagle are astounding visual effects. The whole movie is surreal, because the animation looks so lifelike, yet is hand drawn.” See her complete review below. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Morgan B. comments, “This film sets the bar for jaw dropping animation! The fight scenes and the flying eagle are astounding visual effects. The whole movie is surreal, because the animation looks so lifelike, yet is hand drawn.” See her full review below.

Bilal: A New Breed of Hero
By Morgan B. Bertsch KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Age 13

This film sets the bar for jaw dropping animation! The fight scenes and the flying eagle are astounding visual effects. The whole movie is surreal, because the animation looks so lifelike, yet is hand drawn.

The storyline is based on the real life historical figure of Bilal Ibn Rabah, a close companion of the prophet Mohammed. It reminds me a lot of the story of Jesus and Moses. Even if you are not religious, this film will still be enjoyable since it is always entertaining to learn about other cultures and beliefs.

There are many lessons in this film. The main take away is learning about the ties that keep you from becoming your true self. We are inundated with messages 24/7 from other people, TV, radio, the media, the Internet and, sometimes we lose track of who we want to be because of all those messages in our heads. This movie is very relevant today, because it reminds us to listen to our heart, slow down and think about what is really important.

There is some violence, which is inappropriate for younger children. The movie is about slavery and breaking free, not only from your physical chains but your mental chains as well. The graphics are detailed and I recommend that an adult watch with their child. Slavery and history are violent subjects which should be discussed, but at an appropriate age.

It is full of historical lessons including the purpose of idols, gold, slaves and greed. It shows how it is better to love and cherish people, rather than a phone, computer, car or idols. The story also deals with the bonding among siblings and the lengths they go to protect each other. I can relate to this as I would do anything to protect my sister. I admired the bond between Bilal and Ghufaira.

Bilal is a very caring person. He shows his love for his sister by defending her and giving her all he has. He is also true to his word. These qualities make Bilal a one-of-a-kind hero and hence, my favorite character. The best scene in this film is when the two armies go to the battle field to fight. I love this scene because the animation is just mind blowing. I couldn’t even tell if it was real or hand drawn. When I met the producers and writers of the film, I learned that the fight scene has 3251 plus fames in it. The animation is perfection. It is very detailed and clear. If this film ever enters an award ceremony it will win a prize, I’m sure.

I recommend this film for ages 13 to 18 and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. Younger kids would be challenged to understand it but teens will get it completely. The morals and the history make it perfect for families to watch together. This opens in theaters February 2, 2018 so go check it out.

Peter Rabbit, the mischievous and adventurous hero who has captivated generations of readers, now takes on the starring role of his own irreverent, contemporary comedy with attitude. In the film, Peter’s feud with Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) escalates to greater heights than ever before as they rival for the affections of the warm-hearted animal lover who lives next door (Rose Byrne). James Corden voices the character of Peter with playful spirit and wild charm, with Margot Robbie, Elizabeth Debicki, and Daisy Ridley performing the voice roles of the triplets, Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Carla P. comments, “Peter Rabbit is one of my favorite kid’s movie of the year so far. It’s an adorable film that is perfect for the whole family. I love this film because of the acting and CGI.” Morgan B. adds, “Adorable, humorous, charming and a heartwarming tale just in time for Easter and spring!” See their full reviews below.

Peter Rabbit
By Carla P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Peter Rabbit is one of my favorite kid’s movie of the year so far. It’s an adorable film that is perfect for the whole family. I love this film because of the acting and CGI.

Peter Rabbit follows Peter Rabbit, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton Tail and Benji as they get into  mischief by taking vegetables from the garden next door. They take the vegetables from Mr. McGregor who tries desperately to get them out of their garden by using explosives and even an electric fence. The rabbits hang out with loveable characters like Bea. She helps the rabbits by giving them shelter when it rains and helps them get food.

Throughout the movie, we see great acting from all the actors and voice actors in the film. I love how Domhnall Gleeson acts like a soulless man with the rabbits who he is trying to kill, but with Bea, he acts like in he’s love. I found that Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) really does seem to be in love with Bea. I also like how the voice actors portray the rabbits. Each one of them has a personality that is well portrayed in their voices and actions. For example, Cotton Tail is a memorable character because of how wild and reckless she is. The way Daisy Ridley voices her shows how wild she can be.

The CGI in this film is extraordinary. The animals look so realistic. If you really focus on the rabbits, you can see the individual hairs on them. You can also see it on the pig character that hangs out with the rabbits. During a fight sequence with Peter and Mr. McGregor, they actually look like they are fighting and not like he is fighting a fake bunny.

I rate this movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 7 to 12. This movie comes out on Friday, February 9, 2018 so be sure to check it out.

Peter Rabbit
By Morgan B. Bertsch, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Adorable, humorous, charming and a heartwarming tale just in time for Easter and spring! You will be hopping as fast as you can to catch up with the rabbits and all the other animals that are, once again, calculating how to get into Mr. McGregor’s Garden.

Peter Rabbit is based on the books by Beatrix Potter. Beatrix Potter lived from 1866 to 1943 and is one of the best-loved children’s authors. She wrote and illustrated 28 books and each one has been translated into more than 35 languages. They have sold over 100 million copies. This is important because one of the main goals for the director and the cast was to stay true to her vision.

The beauty of this film is that the rabbits all look as if you could touch them because the animation is so life like. The scenes with the garden and house look like places that I would enjoy living because they look like a fairytale that came alive. Of course, if you don’t share your vegetables your life will not be enjoyable.

The moral of the film is about getting along with others, telling the truth and being honest.  Everyone makes mistakes and we need to find a way to fix them.

Thump, click, crack, snap, thud –  all these noises, plus thousands of other sounds effects add to the humor of this film. The music is outstanding. I cannot wait to purchase the soundtrack. There is a combination of movie symphony music, sounds from the 80s, new original songs and a plethora of songs and sounds that will put a smile on your face.

Of course, the comical James Corden makes a perfect bunny. Peter Rabbit is my favorite character, full of sassy and classy moves and words of wisdom. His humorous and quick-witted lines made me burst out laughing when I watched the film. He also has a very kind heart, which I love. Corden brings his quirky personality that we see on his late night television show to this part.

On the other hand, I also love the adorable Flopsy (Margot Robbie). She is so cute and cuddly, knows how to fend for herself and I just love her. She is the perfect role model for kids because she teaches how you can be both smart, cute and a fighter. Margot Robbie adds a bit of quirkiness to this character because she is the one and only Harley Quinn. She is the complete opposite – serious and tough – in the recent movie Christopher Robin. I loved meeting her in person.

My favorite scene is when Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) is electrified by the bunnies. This scene is absolutely hilarious and quirky. I could not stop laughing. Seeing bunnies figuring out how to use an electric fence was shocking.

Ever caring, kind Bea (Rose Byrne) is the sweetest. She is the hero who protects the animals at all costs. I relate to her a lot. She is funny and a bite odd. Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley) is one tough bunny. You know that this film is magnificent when the star of Star Wars appears in it. Cotton-Tail is young, yet very feisty and tough. It reminds me of her character in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

I recommend this film for ages 6 to 18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars. Kids will adore the bunnies and the other talking animals. The teenagers will love the hummer and fun scenes that the younger kids don’t understand. This film is a perfect for the entire family so grab a bag of carrots, radishes and turnips and head to the theaters. It opens February 9, 2018.

Wendy sees things differently: she’s fiercely independent, with a brilliant mind and a mischievous sense of hilarity. Wendy also has autism. To her, people are an indecipherable code and the world’s a confusing place. Inspired by her no-nonsense caregiver, Wendy comes of age and escapes from her care home on the road trip of a lifetime to deliver her 500-page script to a writing competition. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Calista B. comments, “I just hope people take away from this movie an understanding that people with challenges can still accomplish great things. Autistic people are extremely creative and deserve more credit and opportunities.” Morgan B. adds, “The storyline is very intriguing. Many people want to be writers and are waiting for their big break. This film is all about a passionate writer and it can help people who want to be writers because encourages them to be courageous and to live their dreams to the fullest.” See their full reviews below.

Please Stand By
By Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

I was very impressed with this film. The portrayals are fairly accurate and positive. I think that’s important.

This film is about an autistic girl named Wendy, played by Dakota Fanning. Wendy is a humongous Star Trek fan who runs away from her caregiver and heads to Paramount Pictures to enter her script in a Star Trek writing contest.

The first thing that I must talk about is the fact that the main character is a female autistic girl. I am on the autism spectrum myself.  Specifically, I have high-functioning Asperger’s syndrome. It’s a common misconception that autism occurs mainly in boys, yet this film has a female lead who’s on the spectrum and I love that. Autism has such a wide spectrum and effects 1 in 100 people. There are a lot of us out there and, aside from this movie, I can only think of a few other fictional characters on the spectrum and that upsets me. It’s rare to see autistic people represented, until recently and they are interesting people. The traits shown in this film are accurate. For example, there’s a scene when Wendy sings to herself while covering her ears to block out the loud noises. I can relate to that since I do that too. It’s good that the traits shown are correct.

Wendy is a character who you can’t help but want to root for. I relate to her passion for writing, as I am also a writer. I wanted her to succeed so badly. Also, all of the Star Trek references actually have a purpose. At first, it just seems as if her love of Star Trek is just her special interest, as many autistic people develop special interests. But the movie actually uses the Star Trek references in a much more meaningful way. There’s a scene where one of the characters explains to his mom that Spock has trouble with his emotions. He uses this as an example of why Wendy might be obsessed with the show. To be honest, I thought that metaphor was incredibly creative.

However, I’ll be honest, the older sister, Audrey, really bothered me. I understand Wendy is lower functioning. They show early on how Wendy would freak out and start hitting herself when she was overwhelmed. But, the only reason that Wendy runs away is because her sister doesn’t trust Wendy being away from her caregiver, therefore Audrey won’t drive Wendy to the post office to drop off the script. I know caretakers will connect with Audrey as it can be difficult to care for people with challenges. I just hope people take away from this movie an understanding that people with challenges can still accomplish great things. Autistic people are extremely creative and deserve more credit and opportunities.

I give this film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 11 to 18. This film is in theaters now, be sure to check it out.

Please Stand By
By Morgan B. Bertsch, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Get ready for takeoff on a Star Trek adventure! Please Stand By is the voyage of Wendy, a young autistic woman who sees her life as a Star Trek quest with Spock as her guiding light.

I like that this film has very realist cinematography. The film seems natural and real. By not having graphics, it is a nice change. In so many movies today, there are tons of graphics. Also there are intercuts showing what Wendy is seeing in her mind, which helps you get into the mind frame of her character. I love that because, when I  watched the film I got to understand where she was coming from, her motivation and why she was driven to this quest.

The storyline is very intriguing. Many people want to be writers and are waiting for their big break. This film is all about a passionate writer and it can help people who want to be writers because encourages them to be courageous and to live their dreams to the fullest.

My favorite scene is when Wendy’s dog Pete needs to go to bathroom so badly that he goes on the bus, because the next stop is an hour away. This scene is so funny. I laughed a lot while watching it. Also Pete and Wendy learned that “logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end.”(Spock) She had never ventured out in the world by herself and that is all about to change.

Wendy’s (Dakota Fanning) strength to carry on even when things get rough is inspiring. It takes courage to leave her hometown so she can get her 500 page script in on time to Paramount Pictures. She is willing to do the impossible and “boldly go where no man has gone before”(Captain Kirk) This is why Wendy is my favorite character and a great role model. There is nothing that will stop her – hospitals, cops, robbers and a slew or other obstacles will have you laughing and in tears.

I recommend this to ages 13 to 18. It is a fantastic film with an amazing message. Teenagers will love that Wendy has a mind of her own and is willing to do whatever is takes to get her script in. They might think about becoming writers themselves. I give  it 4.5 out of 5 Star Trek flying stars. It opens in theaters January 26, 2018 so be sure to go check it out.

In the epic finale to The Maze Runner Saga, Thomas leads his group of escaped Gladers on their final and most dangerous mission yet. To save their friends, they must break into the legendary last city, a WCKD controlled labyrinth that may turn out to be the deadliest maze of all. Anyone who makes it out alive will get the answers to the questions the Gladers have been asking since they first arrived in the maze. Will Thomas and the crew make it out alive? Or will Ava Paige get her way? KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Calista B. comments, “This film is full of action from beginning to end. During the production of this film in 2016, Dylan O’Brien was severely injured on set. Because of that, the film was delayed and is just now being released. I’m so sorry about Dylan’s accident and believe that the wait was worth it, as I love this movie.”  Tristan T. adds, “Based upon the novel, The Death Cure by James Dashner, The Maze Runner the Death Cure is the third and final film in the Maze Runner trilogy.  It is a very satisfying conclusion to the series and wraps up most questions for fans.” See their full reviews below.

Maze Runner: The Death Cure
By Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

This film is full of action from beginning to end. During the production of this film in 2016, Dylan O’Brien was severely injured on set. Because of that, the film was delayed and is just now being released. I’m so sorry about Dylan’s accident and believe that the wait was worth it, as I love this movie.

This is the third and final installment of the Maze Runner trilogy. Thomas and his friends head to the last standing city to save their friend, Minho and take down the Government Association known as WCKD.

I’m quite a fan of the Maze Runner books, so I can vouch for the accuracy of this movie. Quite a bit of the story is different from the book. Even the plot of saving Minho isn’t in the book. He is with the group in the book. However, all the major events are still the same as both stories involve taking down WCKD.

This movie is fast moving and heart racing. In almost every scene something exciting is happening. The film barely gives you time to rest. I feel like this keeps you on edge and it works. During some scenes I tensed up, with my fists clenched. The action is actually very effectively exciting. There are tons of explosions, and fire and gunshots. And they are all so cool. The special effects are really impressive.

This film is a dystopian story. The reason the world ends in this story is an illness known as the “Flare” that turns people into zombie-like creatures. The makeup used for the creatures, known as Cranks, is outstanding. Here’s a shout out to the entire makeup department.

The acting is also really good. Dylan O’Brien, who plays Thomas and Thomas Brodie-Sangster, who plays Newt, have incredible performances. I will not spoil what happens, but one specific performance from them had me in straight up tears.

Also, the city where most of the film takes place, known as Last City, has a very neat design. It looks intimidating, yet beautiful. It felt like Los Angeles, but darker. I’m curious if the director, Wes Ball, plans to do the prequels, as there are two prequels. I give this movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It comes out in theaters January 26, 2018 so be sure to check it out.

Maze Runner: The Death Cure
By Tristan T., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Based upon the novel, The Death Cure by James Dashner, The Maze Runner the Death Cure is the third and final film in the Maze Runner trilogy.  It is a very satisfying conclusion to the series and wraps up most questions for fans.  This film is very fun and entertaining.  The one thing that disappointed me was the length of time since the last film, The Maze Runner the Scorch Trials.  It came out September 2015, so you may need a little refresher course prior to watching the final film.

My favorite character is Newt, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster.  I have cheered for Newt during the whole trilogy as he brings so much life to the entire film.  His character has depth and passion, but in a light-hearted way.  I find him very relatable and, without giving away any spoilers, his character will touch you deeply during this final film.

The bond of friendship is a strong theme throughout the trilogy, but nothing has been as powerful as it is in Maze Runner the Death Cure.  I love how the screenwriter, T.S. Nowlin, pushes each character to their limits, testing their abilities and gives viewers insight into their mindset and true vulnerabilities.

As in the previous two films, the cinematography is amazing.  While the backdrop is futuristic, you do not have the feeling that everything is overly CGI.  Even the fight scenes are pretty realistic.  I find it interesting that the whole film was shot in Cape Town, South Africa.

Maze Runner the Death Cure is rated PG-13 for intense sci-fi violence and action.  There is some language, but not much.  If you have been a fan of the Maze Runner series, Maze Runner the Death Cure will not disappoint.  With a running time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, it is a bit long, but there are no drag times. You’ll remain entertained the whole time.  I recommend this film for ages 13 to 18 and give it 4 out of 5 stars.  It opens in theaters January 26, 2018 so look for it.

After being gone for a decade a country star returns home to the love he left behind. KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror, Kimbirly O. comments, “The setting is beautiful, a fictitious city in the south where everyone knows each other. The southern charm is palpable and warm. I was hoping for a solid romantic story about young love. What was delivered is the very element of sap, much like what is broadcast on the Hallmark Channel, complete with a happy ending.” Abraham F. adds, “There are many plot holes such as when Liam Page goes to his hometown because his best friend dies in a drunk driving accident and their history is never mentioned. It just seems like a plot device.” See their full reviews below.

Forever My Girl
By Abraham F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Forever My Girl is a romance movie based on a book by Heidi McLaughlin, a New York Times bestselling author, but that doesn’t stop this movie from being one of the most atrocious movies I have ever seen. There are many plot holes such as when Liam Page goes to his hometown because his best friend dies in a drunk driving accident and their history is never mentioned. It just seems like a plot device. Another thing that bothered me is Liam’s relationship with his ex-fiancé’s brother (the brother of the girl who has jilted), yet when Liam returns they act like best friends.

The storyline is about Liam Page, a country singer that left his fiancé, Josie on their wedding day to go on tour. Eight years later, his friend dies in a car accident and Liam decides to go back home. He stays with his dad and everyone ignores him, because he left Josie at the altar. He finds out that Josie was pregnant when he left and he has a kid, so he decides to be the father he was meant to be, but faces criticism from Josie’s brother.

Two of the main characters are up and coming actors. Alex Roe who plays Liam Page was born in June, 1990 in London, England as Alexander Michael Roe-Brown. He known for his role as Even Walker on The 5th Wave. Jessica Rothe, who plays Josie is most famous for appearing in Happy Death Day and La La Land. Their portrayal of the characters in this film seem too fake and shallow. Roe didn’t even seem to know how to play guitar for his role and Rothe is almost invisible.

My favorite character is Billy (Abby Ryder Fortson), Liam and Josie’s 10-year-old girl. In one scene Liam brings her a teddy bear and she says, “I liked them when I was four.” That felt like something a kid would say at that age. This movie is her biggest role so far and she stands out from the other actors.

The message of this movie is that it’s not easy being a parent, but in the end it’s worth it. I recommend this for ages 12 to 18. There is some drinking, but otherwise, it’s pretty family friendly. I give this film 1 out of 5 stars. It opens in theaters January, 19 2018 so, go check it out.

Forever My Girl
By Kimbirly O., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

If you love a love story, especially in the vein of a Nicolas Sparks novel, this film is for you. The film is based on a novel written by a woman, Heidi McLaughlin and the screenplay is written and directed by a woman, Bethany Ashton Wolf.

Forever My Girl depicts a man who left his bride at the altar. This does not seem like a story any woman wants to tell. Given the marketing mentions Nicholas Sparks and seeking to attract his audiences, it tells me a lot about the studio’s lack of faith in the film.

I cannot lie, Forever My Girl did not set the bar high for a committed relationship, nor the reality of parenting. Liam (Alex Roe), the lead male character, left his beloved fiancé Josie (Jessica Rothe), at the altar to seek fame and fortune as a country singer. His success as a musician is colored with drug and alcohol abuse. After a decade on the road, a funeral in the quaint hometown of the country star brings him back in time to a life he led and seemed to love. The ease with which the lead actors fall back into rhythm with each other appears far-fetched, maximized by Liam learning he has an 8-year-old child he was never told of, Billy (Abby Ryder Fortson), who is by far the star of this film. Her sweetness and snarky delivery of lines mix to deliver a fantastic performance by a child actor.

The setting is beautiful, a fictitious city in the south where everyone knows each other. The southern charm is palpable and warm. I was hoping for a solid romantic story about young love. What was delivered is the very element of sap, much like what is broadcast on the Hallmark Channel, complete with a happy ending.

I give this film 3 of 5 stars for the casting of rising stars, charming location and music. This film will appeal to tween and teen audiences, ages 10 to 18. I caution younger viewing due to drug and alcohol use and abuse. It opens in theaters January 19, 2018 so, check it out.