KIDS FIRST! News

As the holidays approach, you are looking for the perfect gift for that niece, nephew, sister-in-law and, of course, your own kids and family members. You probably know what the people closest to you want and need but those further relations are a bit of a challenge. We want to share with you the films and DVDs that we’ve watched this year along with reviews by our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics so you get the kids’ point of view. After all, kids are the audience for these films, so let’s listen to what the kids have to say about them. More film reviews are available at kidsfirst.org. Happy holidays!

FOR YOUNG GIRLS

Dear Dumb Diary
Based on the best-selling series “Dear Dumb Diary” by Jim Benton. Follow Jamie Kelly as she navigates Mackeral Middle School with the help of her best friend Isabella, her nemesis Angeline and the boy of her dreams Hudson. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review. 

My Little Pony: Equestria Girls
Via a magic mirror, Twilight Sparkle travels into an alternate universe in order to recover a crown that was stolen from the Crystal Empire. Upon her arrival she is surprised to learn that she has turned into a teenage girl. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

FOR THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE

Iron Man and Hulk: Heroes United
When “Zzzax,” a seemingly invincible, energy devouring monster threatens to destroy the planet, Marvel’s unlikeliest pairing of Avengers is mankind’s only hope. Alone, neither can defeat the awesome power of Zzzax. As a duo, they just might have a chance – if they can find a way to work together without smashing heads before time runs out! Trailer.

Transformers Prime: Predacons Rising
A resurrected UNICRON has taken over the now-lifeless body of MEGATRON to seek vengeance on the AUTOBOTS and ultimately, the destruction of Cybertron. This formidable enemy forces an unlikely alliance between the AUTOBOTS, DECEPTICONS, PREDAKING and two new Predacons, who come together in an epic battle to help protect their newly restored planet! KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

The Wolverine
Hugh Jackman returns as The Wolverine and faces his ultimate nemesis in an action packed life-or-death battle that takes him to modern day Japan. Vulnerable for the first time and pushed to his limits, Logan confronts not only lethal samurai steel but also his inner struggle against his own immortality; an epic fight that will leave him forever changed. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

FOR THE WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE

The Extraordinary Adventures of Adele Blanc-Sec
An epic tale set in the early part of the 20th century and focused on a popular reporter and her
dealings with would-be suitors, the cops, monsters, and other adventures. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

FOR THE YOUNGER ONES

Planes
A crop-dusting plane with a fear of heights lives his dream of competing in a famous around-the-world aerial race. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

Merry Christmas, Splat…And More Winter Stories
Ready for this season’s holiday family viewing, Merry Christmas, Splat… and More Winter Stories brings best-selling children’s storybooks to life and promotes a love of literature. Includes: Merry Christmas, Splat; Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas; Owl Moon. Trailer.

Thomas & Friends®: 3- Movie Pack
Start your engines for the most-action packed movie night of the year!  Thomas & Friends®: 3-Movie Pack, is filled with rip-roaring adventures, mysteries to be solved, heroic rescues and new discoveries.  Includes: Thomas & Friends: Blue Mountain Mystery – The Movie; Thomas & Friends: Day of the Diesels – The Movie; Thomas & Friends: Misty Island Rescue – The Movie. Clip.

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Christmas Bounty
A former bounty hunter turns into an elementary schoolteacher. Determined to have a normal life and keep her bounty hunter past a secret, she reluctantly returns home for Christmas to help save the family business by catching the one bounty that got away. But when her fiancé follows her home for the holiday, she struggles to hide her wild family business and a bounty hunter ex-boyfriend she thought she’d left behind.

The Croods
After their cave is destroyed, a caveman family must trek through an unfamiliar fantastical world with the help of an inventive boy. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

Despicable Me 2
Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ff7nDHZPfsU

Epic
From the creators of Ice Age comes a funny animated adventure starring Amanda Seyfried and Beyoncé Knowles. A teenager finds herself transported to a deep forest setting where a battle between the forces of good and the forces of evil is taking place. She bands together with a rag-tag group characters in order to save their world — and ours. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcAZGex5woQ

The Hunters
A family of archeologists hunt down artifacts from fairy tales that have been hidden around the globe. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

Mama Doni’s Jewish Holiday Party
Mama Doni’s “”Jewish Holiday Party”” is her debut DVD with a brand new bonus soulful, acoustic CD soundtrack. From a bluegrass “”Chanukah Oh Chanukah”” medley sing-along to a fun instructional “Making Challah with Mama Doni” video throw-down in the kitchen, this DVD celebrates Chanukah, Passover and Shabbat like never before. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

A Monster in Paris
A 3D-animated movie set in Paris in the year 1910 and centered on a monster who lives in a garden and his love for a beautiful, young singer, Lucille.  KIDS FIRST! Film Critics review.

Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters
The magical, mythical adventures of teenager Percy Jackson — son of the Greek god Poseidon — continue in this heroic, action-packed thrill ride! Out to prove he’s not just a “one-quest wonder,” Percy and his demigod friends embark on an epic, cross-country journey into the treacherous Sea of Monsters, where they battle terrifying creatures, an army of zombies, and the ultimate evil. With time running out, Percy must find and bring home the fabled Golden Fleece, which has the power to save his world…and save us all! KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

Pete’s Christmas
An overlooked middle child finds himself in the unexpected spotlight when he realizes his family’s terrible Christmas day keeps repeating. As the only one experiencing the day over and over, he decides to use his unique gift to give the holidays a makeover and his family a Christmas they will never forget. KIDS FIRST! Film Critics review.

The Smurfs 2
The Smurfs team up with their human friends to rescue Smurfette, who has been kidnapped by Gargamel since she knows a secret spell that can turn the evil sorcerer’s newest creation into real Smurfs. Trailer.

Turbo
A freak accident might just help an everyday garden snail achieve his biggest dream: winning the Indy 500. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic review.

Brought to you by the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics!

The second installment from the Tolkien novel, The Hobbit, released recently features the dwarves, along with Bilbo Baggins and Gandalf the Grey, as they continue their quest to reclaim Erebor, their homeland, from Smaug. Bilbo Baggins is in possession of a mysterious and magical ring. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Raven D. has this to say about the film, The stunning 3D visuals really bring the work of Tolkien to life and, I think the darkness of this film fits a lot better with the “Lord of the Rings” series than the first film did.” Raven’s full review is below.

The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug
Reviewed by Raven D., age 16, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

“The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug” is the second installment of the three part series adapted from the best selling novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. A prequel to the epic trilogy “Lord of the Rings,” “The Hobbit” follows young Bilbo Baggins, played by Martin Freeman, as he accompanies Gandalf and the Dwarves on a quest to rid their home of the evil dragon Smaug. In “The Desolation of Smaug,” the Dwarves, Bilbo and Gandalf find themselves not only having to face the evil dragon that destroyed the Dwarf Kingdom, but they also have to deal with the threat of the Orcs, the Elves and the Necromancer. Thorin, the exiled Dwarf King is desperately trying to free his people of the dreaded Smaug, but greed begins to overtake him when he starts to focus his attention on a precious stone that is being guarded by the dragon. Will the Dwarves and Bilbo be triumphant in their epic quest, or will they awaken a power greater and more evil than they could have ever imagined.

I really enjoyed this movie. I wasn’t very impressed by the first Hobbit film that was released in 2012, but “Desolation of Smaug” is incredible. The stunning 3D visuals really bring the work of Tolkien to life and, I think the darkness of this film fits a lot better with the “Lord of the Rings” series than the first film did. I really like the fact that they are making three movies off of the one book because I think if they tried to cram everything into one movie it would be way too much. I love the soundtrack in this film. The film has some really beautiful visuals and they are capture the original feel of the Tolkien series while also throwing in some really fun and upbeat tunes.

My favorite character is Bilbo Baggins because I absolutely adore Martin Freeman. He is such a versatile actor and can play very serious roles while also bringing in playful and comedic qualities. Martin also plays Watson in the BBC series “Sherlock” which is one of my favorite TV shows and I just love everything he’s in. He really embodies the character Bilbo and it’s very interesting to see the way Bilbo changes from the last film. His character development is great and Martin Freeman does a phenomenal job taking on that role.

My favorite scene is when Bilbo encounters Smaug for the first time. The exchange between the two characters is very interesting because Smaug seems very curious about Bilbo and doesn’t immediately attack like you expect and Bilbo does everything he can to distract Smaug by complimenting him and talking circles around him. The whole scene has a lot of suspense but it’s also very playful. I also love the look of Smaug and the CGI for him is incredible. They capture his features in such a wonderful way. You can really tell what he’s feeling by the faces he makes and the very human expressions he has.

I recommend this film for ages 13+ because there is a lot of action, violence and suspenseful situations. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and it is definitely a must see if you are a fan of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. So be sure to catch “The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug” in a theater near you!

Iron Man and the Hulk team up in this groundbreaking Marvel CG Animation rated PG for sci-fi violence and some language. According to 11-year-old Gerry O, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, “This move has a lot to offer – comedy, thrilling scenes, adventure, suspense, action and, of course, super heroes.” Gerry’s full review is below.

Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United
Reviewed by Gerry Orz, age 11, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
Video review available here:

Iron Man and Hulk together. When you think about it, it’s a quite strange combination. Iron Man is zap-zap tech, but Hulk is BOOM, BOOM, and BOOM! “Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United” is a unique movie all Marvel fans will adore.

This move has a lot to offer – comedy, thrilling scenes, adventure, suspense, action and, of course, super heroes.

The great story begins when Hulk is captured and well, he saves himself. Sadly, a new villain has risen and Hulk and Iron Man must work together to stop him. If you want to find out how they accomplish this you must watch the film.

As for the animation, it seems a bit outdated, but still great. It was amazing to see how producers were able to bring characters to life. The idea of the story is brilliant and the script has a bunch of action scenes. It could probably use a bit more interaction between main characters, but otherwise the story kept me at edge of my seat. The voice actors are excellent.

My favorite scene is when Hulk and Iron Man first meet. They get into a fight and Hulk wins. This is the first scene with both of them and it’s very funny.

This movie has a bit of action so I recommend it for ages 10 to 18. I give it 4 out of 5 stars because of the few minor items. Definitely, this is a film that is worth watching.

Most of us have our favorite holiday films that we enjoy from year to year. Here is a new film that you might want to check out that puts a new spin on holiday movies. One of our youth reporters, Brianna B has this comment on the film, “I like how the writers, Lou Berney and Turk Pipkin, basically take a holiday scrooge and make him into a person that loves and enjoys the holidays with real life messages.” See her full review below.

Angels Sing
Reviewed by Brianna Hope B., age 14, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
Video Review here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCPGQHWbeto

This is a wonderful Holiday film that I really enjoyed watching.

Michael Walker (Harry Connick, Jr.) loved Christmas when he was a kid. Then, an accident crushed his holiday spirit. Years pass and he is married to Susan Walker (Connie Britton) and he still cannot enjoy the holidays. His family tries to help him. When his son David (Chandler Canterbury), faces his own tragedy, Michael needs to make amends with his past so he can help his son through his tough time. A stranger named Nick (Willie Nelson), gives Michael an amazing gift that helps him find the joyfulness that he lost.

“Angels Sing” is a great family film. The story line is original and unique. The acting, I feel, is very truthful and believable. I also like the singing by the cast, because it is very harmonious. I like how the writers Lou Berney and Turk Pipkin basically take a holiday scrooge and make him into a person that loves and enjoys the holidays with real life messages. This film is entertaining, and funny at times with some great comedy in lots of the scenes.

My favorite character is David because he is a kid like me and I like how he wants to help his dad with what is bothering him about the holiday season.

My favorite scene is when Michael is teaching David how to fly a remote control toy airplane, because it shows me how much David loves his father and how close he is to his father. I also like this scene because it shows how loose and carefree Michael is with his son and vice versa.

A great message that in this film is that that family love conquers all. If you love your family and your family loves you, the love between you will be more important than all your problems and all your worries.

I recommend “Angels Sing” for ages 10 to 17 and adults will enjoy it as well. It is great for a movie night with the whole family. I give this film 4 out of 5 stars. “Angels Sing” is in theaters now and will also be available on Video on Demand and DVD December 10th.

Just in time for the holidays and the winter season comes “Frozen,” based on the Hans Christian Anderson story The Snow Queen but, with a few twists of its own. Two young princesses face the test of their love when one, plagued by icy powers traps the kingdom in eternal winter. This is a wonderfully animated film from Disney’s Animation Studio that delivers a visual extravaganza from beginning to end. It’s one to share with your entire family this holiday season. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Keefer B. points out that, “What makes this film amazing is the animation. They have created fantastic visuals. The way the ice and snow glisten and dance is spectacular. I also love the music.” Gerry Orz adds, “The movie has so much to love – comedy, romance, adventure, suspense, thrillers, fantasy and so, so much more.” See Keefer and Gerry’s full reviews below.

Frozen
By Keefer B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
Video review available here:

This is a beautifully animated, musical, family Disney film. The story is about Princess Elsa (Idina Menzel), who was born with the power to manifest ice and snow, and her sister Anna (Kristen Bell). When Elsa accidentally turns their kingdom into an eternal winter, it is up to Anna to save the day with the help of a reindeer, snowman and a prince or two.

What makes this film amazing is the animation. They have created fantastic visuals. The way the ice and snow glisten and dance is spectacular. I also love the music. The songs that stand out in this film are the beginning song “Frozen Heart,” “Want to Build a Snowman,” and my favorite – “Let it Go.” All of these songs are brilliant. Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel do a fantastic job singing and playing these two roles. Voice acting can be tough to pull off because you have to put all your emotion into your voice. Since they succeed, it makes the characters very believable and you can feel for these two sisters.

My favorite character is Elsa. You can feel the pain she’s going through. All she wants is to be with her sister but, because of her uncontrollable powers, she doesn’t want to hurt her. This is a well written role.

My favorite scene is when Elsa is running away and sings “Let it Go.” Where do I begin? First of all, this is the best animation in the film. We see her use the powers she’s been denying. Bravo to the animators in creating this visual enchantment. The song does what songs should do. It tells how the character feels in a musical form and is extraordinary. Add in the wonderful singing from Menzel and you have my favorite scene.

The message of the story is, love conquerors all. Elsa can’t control her powers. Whenever she is sad or mad, she creates a blizzard. She finally learns that the love of her sister is all she needs to gain control of her powers.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend this to kids ages 5 to 13. The younger kids will enjoy the princesses, the princes and the comedy reliefs.  This film opens in theaters on Thanksgiving day.

Frozen
Reviewed by Gerry Orz, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11
See full video review here:

I expected the movie to be kind of like “Tangled” with a main plot and a long, long quest. Well… I was almost right. “Frozen” is a great movie the whole family should see!

The movie has so much to love – comedy, romance, adventure, suspense, thrillers, fantasy and so, so much more. It also teaches us a valuable lesson of not being afraid to show who we are and put our “powers” to a good use.

The fun starts when two young royal sisters get into an accident. One has a magical power to summon ice. The magical girl hits her little sister, Anna. She lives but, has no memory of the magic and does not see her sister for many years. When Anna finally gets to see her sister, it turns into a tragedy.

The animation is so adorable and fitting for the actors. They play the voices very well. The two sisters, Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) sound so much alike. The other actors, like Josh Gad do fantastic as well. The film flows very nicely too. The graphics and animation look unbelievably real.
My favorite scene is when Elsa (the one with powers) runs away and builds her own ice castle. She is also my favorite character because she tries to protect her sister, but keeps messing up at it. The castle is built very nicely and it shows her true powers of being the “Snow Queen.” I wouldn’t mind living in a castle like that myself, if you know what I mean.

Since the movie is so kind, bright and educational, I recommend it to ages 4-18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars.