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From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to “choose kind,” comes the inspirational next chapter: White Bird. Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, White Bird reminds us to be brave and choose kind.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Dominic D. comments, “This magical film, White Bird, demonstrates the power to dream, to laugh, and to enjoy the presence of others despite the evil acts of some.” Adele Rayna B. adds, “White Bird is mesmerizing and one of the most beautiful and emotional films I’ve ever seen! The fantastic storytelling with its realistic costumes and exquisite imagery left me in awe. By the end, I wanted to watch it all over again!” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “I especially like how director Marc Forester incorporates some imaginative flair into the production, showing not only the dark and truthful reality of World War II, but also the happy and comforting moments that existed during that time.” See their full reviews and Braedyn’s interview with producer, Kevin Downes below.

White Bird
By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

Helen Mirren as Grandmère in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

This magical film, White Bird, demonstrates the power to dream, to laugh, and to enjoy the presence of others despite the evil acts of some.

From the world of Wonder and Academy Award-winning director Marc Forster, comes the sequential film White Bird, which takes us a step further into the life of Julian (Bryce Gheisar) who must finally face the consequences of past actions — particularly the bullying of Auggie Pullman, a 10-year-old boy born with facial differences. Expelled from school as a result of his unkind acts toward others, Julian gets a taste of his own medicine as he is alienated and challenged to make friends at his new school. His grandmother, Sara Blum (Helen Mirren), pays him a visit with hopes of sharing her haunting and deeply moving story about her survival in Nazi-occupied France during one of the darkest moments of history.

Orlando Schwerdt as Julien and Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks

Intricately narrated, White Bird gives us two stories; one about Julian’s present-day struggles and the other a stirring tale of his grandmother’s harsh struggles during World War II. Flashbacks of young Sara (Ariella Glaser) and her courageous classmate Julian (Orlando Schwerdt), demonstrate for viewers how traumatic life was being a Jew during Nazi-run territories. Their relationship is more than one of survival — it is one of kindness, love, and sacrifice.  What I love most about White Bird is the visualization of young Sara Blum’s life and how her story had a purpose. I connected with her story emotionally as she teaches her grandson the valuable lesson of showing kindness. The stories of two troubled teens — young Sara and her grandson Julian, are well-channeled and they flow with ease.  Although both stories contain heartache; they both end in hope.

This film is a masterpiece filled with a nice balance of warmth and wisdom.  The historic drama combined with the modern coming-of-age scenes adds a special touch to White Bird and kept me engaged throughout the entire film.

Helen Mirren as Grandmère and Bryce Gheisar as Julian in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks

A box of tissues nearby is a must while watching this film. White Bird has many teachable moments and contains many life lessons. This is a must-see family film.

The film’s message rings loud and clear – it’s a message of kindness and how kindness must be shared and practiced. Hate surrounds us; that’s a fact of life. However, the smallest gestures of goodwill can lead to the greatest change.  This film is also about bravery as that is what allows us to take risks and speak up for those who don’t have a voice. It takes a lot of courage sometimes to be kind.

I give White Bird 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. White Bird opens in theaters on October 4, 2024. Be sure to check it out. You’re not going to want to miss this one!

White Bird
By Adele Rayna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

Helen Mirren as Grandmère in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks

White Bird is mesmerizing and one of the most beautiful and emotional films I’ve ever seen! The fantastic storytelling with its realistic costumes and exquisite imagery left me in awe. By the end, I wanted to watch it all over again!

The story starts with Julian (Bryce Gheisar ) going to a new school and struggling to fit in and find his place. When he gets home, his Nonna, Sara (Helen Mirren) is there visiting and starts telling him a story of her childhood. The story takes us back to the 1940s and World War II in France. Young Sara (Ariella Glaser) and her Jewish family thought they would be safe in France but quickly find out this is not the case. Sara’s Jewish classmates are captured but she is able to escape with the help of fellow classmate Julian (Orlando Shlwerdt). He takes Sara to his family‘s barn to hide from the Nazis. Over several months, Zara and Julian build their friendship and admiration for each other. As time moves on, you realize her classmate Julian is someone Sara will always think of fondly.

Bryce Gheisar as Julian in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Julia Vrabelova

The production team really paid attention to detail and it definitely adds to the story. I absolutely love the costumes in this film as they really fit the 1940s era in France. I especially adore Sara‘s red heels and her beautiful dresses! The soldiers’ war time uniforms represent the period well. The sets and props are equally outstanding. The imagination scene with Zara and her classmate Julian is so gorgeous and makes you feel like you are there with them. From the old time truck to the authentic movie reels you are on a journey. It is so engaging to watch the fantastic places come to life on screen and watch the relationships grow. What excites me most is how the directors and writers connect the storytelling from present to past and back again. The acting in this movie is so convincing. I felt like I was stepping back into the 1940s during the war with each scene. Helen Mirren’s calming voice is completely captivating. I could feel her emotion as she spoke and also see it in her eyes. The story is woven through time and shows how kindness is timeless. How will Sara’s story affect her grandson’s life choices? In the end, the film encourages you to always follow your biggest passions and aspirations to make a difference.

The film’s message is to always be kind to others because you never know how they can impact your life. Be forewarned that there are several instances of gun use, flashing lights, and other violence.

I give White Bird, 5 out of 5 stars and recommended for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters October 4, 2024.

White Bird
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Gillian Anderson as Vivienne in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

White Bird is a truly charming story.  With its in-depth scenery, wide range of characters and a message that still resonates with us today, this film encourages you to think twice about someone before you devise a conclusion about them.

Following the adventure of Wonder, Julian Albans (Bryce Gheisar) who was expelled from his school due to his bullying another boy, is told a tale of his grandmother’s (Helen Mirren) childhood.  As a young Jewish girl in Nazi occupied France, Sara Blum (Ariella Glaser) is hidden away by a boy named Julian (Orlando Schwerdt) who was born with polio. At his farm while his family searches for her parents, she starts spending time with Julian, and begins to see him not as the boy with the crutch, but as her guide, her friend, and her light.

I love the film angles in this movie.  Depending on the scene, there is a great deal of variety.  There may be a wide angle for a happy moment, or a close-up for an intense dialogue between the characters.  However, some of the times when they talk, it is a bit hard to hear. It sounds like they are whispering most of the time.

Ariella Glaser as Sara in White Bird: A Wonder Story. Photo Credit: Larry Horricks

I especially like how director Marc Forester incorporates some imaginative flair into the production, showing not only the dark and truthful reality of World War II, but also the happy and comforting moments that existed during that time. Speaking of which, my favorite part is when young Sara and Julian are imagining that they are traveling the world, although they never really leave the barn.  It shows that kids will still be kids no matter what might be happening around them.  I also like how, as she is telling her story, Grand’Mere Sara sprinkles in bits and pieces of humor that keep the audience entertained.

The film’s message is to always look for the good in people, no matter how small. Despite being the odd one out at school, Julian still shows kindness to Sara, and he keeps her company during the war, which results in a wonderful friendship between the two.

I give White Bird 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  White Bird opens in theaters on October 4, 2024.

A trio of misfit kids band together to search for mythic treasure, only to uncover a terrible curse. The trio must find and destroy the gold before a rival group of teens gets to it first and releases an evil spirit on Halloween night.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Sofia T. comments, “The upcoming film Treasure Trackers has amazing technical aspects, astounding acting, and deep character development. This film has something for everyone, especially me. This storyline is very enjoyable – the whole concept of this mystery is very entertaining.” Arya B. adds, “I really love the film Treasure Trackers because it is a detective mystery film that leads you on a complex treasure hunt that leaves you guessing what the next clue may be or how they will get out of the next predicament.” See their full reviews and Sofia’s interview below.

Treasure Trackers
By Sofia T., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

The upcoming film Treasure Trackers has amazing technical aspects, astounding acting, and deep character development. This film has something for everyone, especially me.

The storyline follows California surfer Leah (Charity Rose) who must move to the dreary small town of Carterville, where she makes friends with fellow outcasts Marshy (Sean Jay) and Tessa (Amelia Salazar) to solve the town’s hundreds of years’ old mystery and find the lost treasure that comes with it.  When the trio uncovers the truth behind the treasure’s Halloween curse, they must outsmart the high school troublemakers before an evil spirit is accidentally released.

This storyline is very enjoyable – the whole concept of this mystery is very entertaining. The fact that the three underdogs work together makes it even cooler! As the trio tries to solve the mystery and find the treasure they form a truly amazing bond and each one develops their own strengths. For example, in the beginning, Marshy is a typical geek who’s always scared, but by the end he helps solve the mystery and has lots of fun doing it. He learns to face his fears and this sends an awesome message to viewers. Something that really makes this film stand out is the quality. The audio is perfect; you can hear the snap of a branch.  And the video is crystal clear –  the quality is so coherent that it really heightens your experience and you can truly feel each scene like it’s happening right before your eyes.

The acting in this film is extraordinary. Charity Rose, as Leah, is perfectly cast. Charity’s strong facial features really accentuate Leah’s determined attitude and confident demeanor. Her acting is also incredible – there is one scene where there are spirits overtaking her, and her expressions look so haunted and out of this world, which makes that scene even better. When it comes to the plot, I can only say how much I enjoyed it from the heartfelt scenes to the action, every one hits home. There are some parts that are a bit drawn out, which make the film a bit lengthy; for example, one of the scenes displaying a search for a clue seems rather long. On the other hand, the sets are astounding; in one cave scene, there are stalagmites and stalactites that look so real. There is even lava. The lava really blew me away because it looks super life-like.

The film’s message is that when you work with people you love by your side, you can do anything. Be aware that there are some dark themes in this film such as dark magic, ghosts, and evil spirits, which may frighten younger viewers.

I rate Treasure Trackers 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Treasure Trackers will be available to purchase on Digital platforms starting October 1, 2024, just in time of the Halloween season.

Treasure Trackers
By Arya B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I really love the film Treasure Trackers because it is a detective mystery film that leads you on a complex treasure hunt that leaves you guessing what the next clue may be or how they will get out of the next predicament.

The storyline follows a girl named Leah (Charity Rose) who is forced to move from coastal California to a small country town named Carterville. Upon starting school, she learns of the town’s legendary gold hoard hidden by its founder, Silas Carter, hundreds of years earlier. She is intrigued by this legend and decides to search for the gold with her two new friends Tessa (Amelia Salazar) and Marshy (Sean Jay).  The story follows this trio of middle schoolers on their quest in which they face numerous obstacles.

Early in the film, the diary of Silas Carter is stolen from the school library. This is how Leah learns about the legend and that the diary may provide clues to the location of the buried gold. This inspires her to figure out who stole the diary and to join forces with Tessa and Marshy.  During their journey in search of the gold, they face many obstacles — another group searching for the gold, others stealing their clues, and various dead ends. One of my favorite parts is when the trio ends up in a cave with a lava pit and Leah must walk along the cliff or risk dying. It’s very suspenseful part that made me hold my breath.

My favorite character is Tessa because she is fearless, daring, and willing to try anything.  The country setting is beautiful which contrasts well with the scary scenes. The special effects are very realistic including the flowing lava and the talking raven. The spooky music definitely kept me on edge of my seat.

The film’s message is “life is a blessing in disguise.” In other words, although things may not seem desirable at first, they have a way of becoming exactly what you need.  This film deals with aggressive behavior such as bullying which may be disturbing for younger children.
I give Treasure Trackers 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Treasure Trackers will be available on VOD beginning October 1, 2024.

Transformers One is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Rayce S. comments, “Going into this film I was excited but had low expectations because of the complex history of Transformers media. Transformers films in the past have often deviated from the original story that I love, however this film is unlike all the others, rooted in the origins of the Cybertron universe. I left the theater speechless at how excellent the film was.” Carter P. adds, “Gear up and roll out!  I love Transformers One.  It is fun, laugh-out-loud funny, has some heartfelt moments, and the chemistry between the transformers is outstanding.  The film definitely kept me entertained from beginning to end.  There is lots of action, incredible animation and the battle scenes are so cool.” See their full reviews below.

Transformers One
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Evan Michael Lee (Jazz), Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime) in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s  “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Transformers One is a must watch film with a compelling story, beautiful animation and a great overall theme.

The film is about the untold origin of Optimus Prime and Megatron. We now know that the now sworn enemies were once like brothers and their differences would create strife in their relationship. This change will forever impact Cybertron.

Going into this film I was excited but had low expectations because of the complex history of Transformers media.

Jon Hamm (Sentinel Prime) stars in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Transformers films in the past have often deviated from the original story that I love, however this film is unlike all the others, rooted in the origins of the Cybertron universe. I left the theater speechless at how excellent the film was.

It has numerous perfectly executed moments with well paced moments. The movie introduces the lore of Transformers to new audiences rather quickly while keeping it simple, which helps someone understand everything if they are new to Transformers, while keeping long-time fans like myself happy.

The animation style is just breathtaking, I thought it would take me a while to get used to the new style but I was blown away at how colorful a planet made of metal looks.

L-r, Jon Bailey (Soundwave), Steve Buscemi (Starscream) and Jason Konopisos (Shockwave) star in
PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Of all the standout elements, the best part of this film is the third act, because the whole film builds up to it effortlessly, and by the time the second act ended and the third act started to kick in I was glued to my seat with my eyes locked on to the screen, excited at every moment. It had me smiling the whole way through.

The hardest part for me were the voice overs, which might be a concern for long-time fans who are used to Peter Collin voicing Optimus Prime. It was a challenge for me to get to hear Chris Hemsworth’s performance as Optimus Prime. While he doesn’t sound like the voice we are used to, his interpretation adds a unique flare to the younger version of the character.

For those of us who are concerned about the voice of Megatron by Brian Tyree Henry, there is nothing to be worried about – he kills it! I was blown away by how well he adds a new tone of voice to the character while keeping it classic.

The Guards in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production
A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

All in all, it’s phenomenal casting and an amazing performance by Henry, especially in the third act. These are a few minor concerns I had. The writers, directors, and animation team knew what was best for the Transformers franchise because this film is possibly the best film of the summer, if not the best animation film of the year. It keeps what we love about Transformers while adding new elements to be excited about.

The theme in Transformers One is about how we change as individuals whether it is through ourselves or the situations we are put in. This is demonstrated by Megatron and Optimus Prime and is portrayed so well because we all know Megatron and Optimus Prime become enemies, which makes it even more engaging to find out how that happened for the very first time. The theme is touching, emotional, and impactful. You might walk out of the film feeling a little bit different after watching it.

I give Transformers One 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. This film releases in theaters September 20, 2024

Transformers One
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 13

L-r, Brian Tyree Henry (D-16), Keegan-Michael Key (B-127), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1) and Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax) star in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Gear up and roll out!  I love Transformers One.  It is fun, laugh-out-loud funny, has some heartfelt moments, and the chemistry between the transformers is outstanding.  The film definitely kept me entertained from beginning to end.  There is lots of action, incredible animation and the battle scenes are so cool.

Transformers One is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, who are sworn enemies, but once were friends, bonded like brothers and changed the fate of Cybertron forever.

The film is definitely inspiring. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next.

Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1) stars in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Transformers One is incredibly well animated. I love how it makes the Transformers feel very human-like.  The expressions on their faces are realistic and you can feel the emotions through the big screen.  It made me feel like each one has a mind and heart of its own.

The soundtrack, in some of scenes, brings out the right atmosphere and emotion. I love the songs during the battle scenes, especially when B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key) is taking down the bad guys.

This animated version features great voice actors. All of them are great, but Keegan-Michael Key steals the show! His comedy is fantastic. He kept me laughing throughout the entire movie.

Vanessa Liguori (Arachnid) in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO’s “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

I also liked learning how Optimus Prime (Chris Hemsworth) and Megatron (Brian Tyree Henry) once were friends and what happened to make them enemies.  They are so good on screen together.

This film’s message is about believing in yourself and doing what is right.  It is very family friendly and, for fans of Transformers, this is a must watch, but even newcomers can enjoy it.

I give Transformers One 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Transformers One in theaters on September 20, 2024.

Transformers One
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime), left, and Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron) star in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES
A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production
A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

I love the new animated film Transformers One! It captures the excitement and action of the Transformers movies in a new light. The film allows both long-time fans and newcomers to experience its expressive animation and engaging storyline.

The plot travels back in time to the origin story of Cybertron and the beginning of the Autobots and Decepticons. Four miner bots stumble upon the greatest secret of their time. Optimus Prime and Megatron—who are current rivals—are best friends until power puts their friendship to the test. The war that becomes all or nothing is on the horizon.

The main characters are Orion Pax/Optimus Prime (Chris Hemsworth), Megatron/D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry), Elita (Scarlett Johansson), Bumblebee/ B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key), and Sentinel Prime (Jon Hamm). These actors exquisitely bring life to their characters through their voices.

Brian Tyree Henry (D-16/Megatron) stars in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES
A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production
A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

The beloved characters are brought into a new perspective that expresses their backstory. Before Optimus Prime and Megatron become enemies, they were best friends that worked together all the time. This part of the story is explained throughout the film and it’s very intriguing. Transformers One heled me understand the origin of the Transformers. Before, I wasn’t as interested in the franchise because I was confused about their mission and purpose. However, this film changes the game for me. The pacing is excellent; it’s neither too fast nor too slow. The film kick starts with the lives of the miners, which is contrary to the heroic figures we’ve seen them as. Optimus Prime is hiding in a trashcan – can you believe it? Right off the bat, I became invested in the plot line because it shows the heroes from another point of view.

Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax/Optimus Prime) stars in PARAMOUNT ANIMATION and HASBRO Present In Association with NEW REPUBLIC PICTURES
A di BONAVENTURA PICTURES Production A TOM DESANTO / DON MURPHY Production
A BAY FILMS Production “TRANSFORMERS ONE”

Two generations can experience the joy of this fandom in different ways. In addition, the animation is breathtaking. It’s realistic yet creative, bringing the out-of-this-world imagination to life in a way that wasn’t possible before. The attention to detail in the animation allows the bots to show lifelike emotions. For instance, Elita’s feelings of anger and awe are very recognizable. This helps connect the audience to the plot. My favorite part is when Alpha Trion shows the group what happened during the Cybertronian War. In this scene, there’s a huge plot twist that affects the whole storyline.

The film’s message is to be loyal to your friends and always do what is right. Optimus Prime consistently chooses the path that will benefit his friends. Leadership is another central theme. If you’re given the opportunity to lead, how would you approach it? In reality, I’m not going to be a leader of Cybertron, but I am the leader of my own life. The Transformers need to learn to choose the right direction, which is an important lesson throughout the film.

I give Transformers One 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Transformers One releases in theaters on September 20, 2024.

After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “I love Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.  This movie has wit, jokes and a mix of the afterlife. It exceeded my expectations and is spot on brilliant. Every aspect of this film is jam-packed entertainment.” Keila V. adds, “I had a blast watching Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Tim Burton’s original Beetlejuice (1988) was a quirky, darkly comedic journey through the afterlife, and the 2024 sequel brings that same manic energy with a fresh, ghostly twist.” See their full reviews below.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
By Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.  This movie has wit, jokes and a mix of the afterlife. It exceeded my expectations and is spot on brilliant. Every aspect of this film is jam-packed entertainment.  Director Tim Burton delivers a fabulous sequel to Beetlejuice and the return of the original cast plus a few new faces adds to its charm.

The storyline dives once more into the world of the afterlife with Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) and his quest to be in the world of the living.  His need to become human intensifies when he realizes his soul-sucking ex-wife, Delores (Monica Bellucci) is out for revenge. Beetlejuice renews his focus to unite with human sweetheart, Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) to avoid death.  Lydia is a grown adult and a famous medium.  Her daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega) does not believe in seeing ghosts and their relationship is broken from the death of her dad. Plots and sub-plots merge to create a chaotic and fun ending.

The opening musical score made me feel anticipation from the start. The film returns to the original white house on the hill in Winter River as the family morns for grandpa.  Memories of the house from childhood have Lydia seeing flashes of Beetlejuice.  The town offers an escape for her daughter to make new connections and a special friend.  The original house is not the only nod to the original Beetlejuice. We revisit the long wait lines in the afterlife, shrunken head Bob, misshaped hallways and the sandworm.  There’s an awesome Day O serenade. All of the special effects and makeup for the dead are fabulous. Delia (Catherine O’Hara) stands out to me — her dark tendencies for art become dark comic moments of dealing with grief. Her character is spunky and artistically fun. Beetlejuice is the consistent demon with head twirls, raspy voice and raunchy jokes. From costumes, sound effects, makeup and set design, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice does not disappoint.

The film’s message is to value the love of your family, here and now. Create memories for today and not dwell on the past.  As amazing as this film is, it is a bit edgy with profanity, slight intimacy, violence, unsettling imagery, gore, jump scares and endless mentions of death and the afterlife.

I give Beetlejuice Beetlejuice 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters September 6, 2024.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I had a blast watching Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Tim Burton’s original Beetlejuice (1988) was a quirky, darkly comedic journey through the afterlife, and the 2024 sequel brings that same manic energy with a fresh, ghostly twist. This film is a great pick for a fun night out with friends and family.

Set years after the original, the movie revisits the afterlife with an exciting new spin. Still haunted by Beetlejuice (Tim Burton), Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is now a renowned ghost hunter and paranormal investigator. Her life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.  When someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, the mischievous demon gleefully returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

The story cleverly blends themes of family, identity, and the supernatural, creating a nostalgic yet innovative experience. The pacing is dynamic, combining humor and suspense to keep viewers engaged from start to finish. It was a joy to see Delia Deetz (Catherine O’Hara) return, alongside Lydia, and to meet new characters like my favorite, Astrid Deetz, as well as Rory (Justin Theroux) and Delores (Monica Bellucci). Visually, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a treat for the eyes. The film’s creative team has expertly merged Beetlejuice’s iconic gothic style with cutting-edge special effects, resulting in a visually stunning and imaginative world. The special effects are impressively whimsical and grotesque, perfectly capturing the film’s dark humor and surrealism. One standout scene is when Astrid rides a bike around town, navigating a series of challenges and surprises that reflect her personal struggles and growth.

The film’s core message centers on self-acceptance, authenticity, and the value of true friendship. It encourages young audiences to embrace their unique selves and stay true to their identity, rather than fitting into others’ expectations. Additionally, it underscores the importance of loyalty and support in relationships, showing that genuine friends are those who accept you for who you are and stand by you no matter what.

I give Beetlejuice Beetlejuice a solid 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Don’t miss it when it hits theaters on September 6, 2024!

Three kids discover a magical raincoat that transports them into the body of its former owner: a cursed magician last seen in the 1930s. With a scorned witch hot on their trail, they must solve the mystery of the raincoat and break its curse before it’s too late.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoey F. comments, “I love The Magician’s Raincoat. It is such A Great Movie, With Witty Humor, Amazing Graphics, And Many Plot Twists! The humor in this movie is what I am most impressed with. My favorite scene where this is shown is when Mrs Weaver’s cat puts on the raincoat and is turned into Semprini.” Josephine K. adds, “What a spectacular film! The Magician’s Raincoat is a magical and fantastical journey. The special effects are on point and look very realistic. The plot, sets, and script are all spectacular and organized in a way that ties the storyline together.” See their full reviews below.

The Magician’s Raincoat
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love The Magician’s Raincoat. It is such A Great Movie, With Witty Humor, Amazing Graphics, And Many Plot Twists!

The plot follows the magician Augustus Semprini (Cory Philips) as he performs one of his magic acts. Desperate for money, he steals a golden pin from a woman named Gertrude Cambellton (Ashton Leigh). She approaches him after the show, asking if he stole her broach. He denies her accusations, causing her to harness her witch powers and trap him inside his raincoat. The only way he can free himself is to return it. Almost 86 years pass and we meet Jack, a simple high schooler. Jack (Jake Alexander William) and his siblings come across the raincoat in their grandmother’s attic. The raincoat possesses the ability to turn the wearer into the spitting image of Augustus Semprini. A seemingly normal, but mean middle school teacher, Mrs Weaver (Laura Shatkus) is not that normal after all. She is a witch, and also after the raincoat!

The humor in this movie is what I am most impressed with. My favorite scene where this is shown is when Mrs Weaver’s cat puts on the raincoat and is turned into Semprini. The actor’s performance really convinced me that he was a cat, just in a human body. I also love that this movie has amazing actors that can really make these scenes come to life. Along with the acting, the graphics, costumes and sets of this movie are amazing. When the setting is in the 1900s, there are fitting sets and costumes that make this film come to life. The background music is always extremely fitting. When Mrs Weaver fights Jack, there is suspenseful music to match it. And when there are happy scenes, there is jolly, happy music.

The theme of The Magician’s Raincoat is that not everything is always as it seems. Augustus seems like a perfectly reasonable man, but he steals just to get money. Mrs Weaver seems like a normal teacher, but she turns out to be a witch.

I give The Magician’s Raincoat 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available for streaming beginning September 3, 2024.

The Magician’s Raincoat
By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

What a spectacular film! The Magician’s Raincoat is a magical and fantastical journey. The special effects are on point and look very realistic. The plot, sets, and script are all spectacular and organized in a way that ties the storyline together.

This story begins with a magician (Cory Phillips) performing his show in the late 1920s. He doesn’t have the money to stay in the magic business so he pickpockets his attendees for money. Then, one of his victims turns his life into a disaster. So 86 years later, in present time, three siblings work together to help save the magician from an eternity of tragedy.

This film is high quality, and the plot is creative and fun. What stands out most are the camera work, acting, and storyline. The camera work is excellent and provides a variety of angles perfect for the scenes themselves. For example, when the kids are riding their bikes, the camera provides a bird’s eye view that follows them on their journey. The acting is exceptional and the actors are well cast and their portrayals are believable. Olivia (Taylor Bedford)  is brilliant and the actor who plays her shows this during a discussion with her science teacher (Laura Shatkus). I also like the part when the cat puts on the raincoat and “becomes” the magician; Cory Philips, who portrays him, is excellent.

The story is clear, enjoyable, innovative and intriguing, providing for the overall excellent experience. My favorite part is when Jack (Jake Alexander Williams) tries to talk to his crush, Kristy (Jenna Thaxton) and is not successful, which makes for a hilariously embarrassing scene.

The film’s message is that, over time, comes forgiveness, and eventually desperation. There are also strong themes of the importance of family.

I give The Magician’s Raincoat 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available for streaming beginning September 3 2024.