KIDS FIRST! News

The Bad Guys 2 is a 2025 American animated heist comedy film loosely based on the children’s book series The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey, produced by DreamWorks Animation. The sequel to The Bad Guys (2022), it was directed by Pierre Perifel, co-directed by JP Sans, and written by Yoni Brenner and Etan Cohen. The film stars Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, Awkwafina, Zazie Beetz, Richard Ayoade, Lilly Singh, and Alex Borstein, reprising their roles from the first film, with Danielle Brooks, Maria Bakalova and Natasha Lyonne joining the cast. The film sees the Bad Guys come out of retirement and join forces with an all-female criminal squad to perform one last heist.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Arjun N. comments, “DreamWorks continue their hot streak with a caper that doubles down on the charm and intrigue of the first. I loved the humor, heart, and high-octane thrills in The Bad Guys. Even if the film doesn’t completely transcend the first, it’s enjoyable to watch.” See his full review below.

The Bad Guys 2
By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 23

Wolf (Sam Rockwell) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

DreamWorks continue their hot streak with a caper that doubles down on the charm and intrigue of the first. I loved the humor, heart, and high-octane thrills in The Bad Guys. Even if the film doesn’t completely transcend the first, it’s enjoyable to watch.

The Bad Guys have become the newly reformed Good Guys and they meet their greatest challenge yet, making it through job interviews with their reputation preceding them. After failure repeatedly dawns upon the group, the leader, Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell) suggests that they use their skills to stop a squad of criminals, dubbed the Bad Girls, from stealing a prized wrestling belt. What should have been a simple job quickly turns into an orchestrated cat-and-mouse game with the Bad Girls that has immense repercussions – fortunately, this is just the job for the Good Guys.

(from left) Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina), Chief Misty Luggins (Alex Borstein), Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) and Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell) n DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

The animation is on another level compared to the first – the fast-paced action feels electrifying while the emotions on the characters look real. It’s a testament to the gold standard of animation that DreamWorks offers. Notably, a sequence involving a space station is tastefully over-the-top with breathtaking visuals that had me in awe. One shortcoming is that some of the jokes didn’t land as well as others. The fart jokes felt excessive, and there’s a heap of self-referential humor that broke my immersion. But, most of the humor is thoughtfully hilarious. The cast delivers unique vocal performances that will join the roster of memorable DreamWorks’ characters. Sam Rockwell, as Mr. Wolf, is the heart of the film. You root for him to not only get a job with the crew, but also to get together with Diane Foxington (Zazie Beetz) with whom he shares chemistry.

(from left) Mr. Snake (Marc Maron) and Doom (Natasha Lyonne) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

This time, Foxington has a kick to her as the governor of Los Angeles, while maintaining her elusive identity as the Crimson Paw when it comes to fighting the Bad Girls. The other “Bad” Guys join Mr. Wolf on the path for redemption with Anthony Ramos, as Mr. Piranha, being a comedic standout. Awkwafina, as Ms. Tarantula, offers the brains of the operation. Unfortunately, Mark Maron, as Mr. Snake, takes a back seat with his love life, although he still cracks some safes. Fans might be disappointed by the lack of camaraderie between Mr. Wolf and Mr. Snake – after all, the franchise started with them. On the flip side, the Bad Girls offer complementary foils to the protagonists. Danielle Brookes, as Kitty Kat, is a compelling antagonist whose motives aren’t generically evil, but ultimately you understand why she must stop. The other Bad Girls are well performed and offer surprises that I can’t spoil.

Snake (Marc Maron) in DreamWorks Animation’s The Bad Guys 2, directed by Pierre Perifel.

The film’s message is about change. The reformation of the Bad Guys proves that, with the right attitude and people, anyone can genuinely become their best self. The film contains some mild violence and profanity.

The Bad Guys 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on August 1, 2025.

When a young girl’s sketchbook falls into a strange pond, her drawings come to life—unpredictable, chaotic, and dangerously real. As the town unravels, she and her brother must track down the creatures before they leave permanent damage. Their father, racing to find them through the fallout, must navigate a town in crisis to reunite his family and stop the disaster they never meant to unleash.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ruhi K. comments, “Sketch is a heartwarming family movie brought to life by dynamic characters and bright, whimsical special effects. Complete with expressive acting and plenty of humor, the film tells a powerful story in a creative package.” See her full review below.

Sketch
By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Sketch is a heartwarming family movie brought to life by dynamic characters and bright, whimsical special effects. Complete with expressive acting and plenty of humor, the film tells a powerful story in a creative package.

The storyline follows Amber (Bianca Belle) and Jack Wyatt (Kue Lawrence), who are navigating life after the loss of their mother. Amber has a unique way of expressing her grief — she draws. Every negative thought that enters her mind is transformed into an evil creature, tucked away in the safety of her sketchbook — or so she thinks. Colorful chaos ensues when she accidentally drops her book into a magical pond, unaware of its power to lift her creations out of their pages and into reality.

I commend the cast members for their terrific performances. Bianca Belle stuns as Amber, displaying strong emotions ranging from pent-up anguish and explosions of anger, to a subdued longing and eventually, to acceptance. Amber is a multifaceted character — she expresses her emotions through her drawings, but early in the film, she tries to hide her vulnerability, often resulting in outbursts that she can’t control. The expressive disposition, maintained throughout the movie, clearly shows how Belle has internalized Amber’s internal turmoil.

We also witness Amber coming to terms with her turmoil as she watches her monsters soar through the sky – a moment that beautifully showcases the depth of Belle’s exceptional talent. Tony Hale, D’Arcy Carden and Calon Cox balance out Amber’s intensity and provide comic relief through their performances with both physical and verbal humor. They bring a suitable amount of levity to the film. I appreciate how the writers have sprinkled jokes throughout the film, while maintaining respect for its themes. Additionally, I like how director Seth Worley chooses to explore sensitive themes through the lens of magic and imagination. The use of monsters as metaphors for emotions surrounding grief makes it an easier concept to understand and to discuss.

Having a visual of Jack and Amber “defeating” their emotions can help children dealing with a loss understand and process their own. I found reassurance that, like monsters, the pain of grief is complex but not everlasting; the way it presents itself changes with time, and it is possible to make peace with even the hardest realities.

The film’s message is a reminder that, while grieving is a universal experience, everyone processes it differently; healing is a unique journey.

I give Sketch 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The Movie releases to theatres on August 6, 2025.

Dallas Jenkins, creator of The Chosen, proudly reintroduces his heartfelt family film What If…. Still popular after its release 15 years ago, this faith-filled classic was inspired by Dallas Jenkins’s favorite film, It’s a Wonderful Life and follows Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo), a businessman who abandoned his faith. One day, Ben wakes up living the life he was destined for — married to his college sweetheart (Kristy Swanson) and serving as a small-town pastor. Featuring memorable performances by John Ratzenberger and Debby Ryan, the film blends humor, heart, and powerful family themes. To mark its 15th anniversary, Jenkins reunites with Sorbo, Swanson, Ratzenberger, and producer Michael Scott to reflect on its lasting impact in a special feature shown after the film. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience What If’s inspiring message on the big screen, inviting audiences to reflect on their own “what if” moments and find hope through faith.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.” Jude A. adds, “I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme.” See their full reviews and interview with lead, Kevin Sorbo, below.

What If…
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.

The storyline tells the tale of Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo) who has lived the wildly successful life of a business executive. He loves his life, or seems to, until God and an angel named Mike (John Ratzenberger) decide to flip the script on Ben’s current situation. What follows is Ben’s chance to understand that money isn’t everything, and to catch a glimpse of what his life could have been if he had answered God’s call.

I love how wholesome everything is in this film — no hidden messaging or polarized viewpoints, just an honest, pure, family friendly movie.  Kevin Sorbo portrays all the different emotions of Ben Walker as his entire life is turned upside down, with laughable results.  From asking Mike the Angel about what just happened and what he is doing here, to learning how to become a father and husband, Ben has his hands full, and Kevin Sorbo delivers that beautifully. His new family made up of his wife Wendy (Kristy Swanson), and their two daughters Kimberly (Debby Ryan) and Megan (Taylor Groothuis) add to the chemistry and eventfulness of his newfound life.

The contrasts between the big city of Ben’s old life and the small town of his new reality further strengthen the point that status isn’t always needed to be happy. My favorite part of this film is all of Ben’s interactions with Mike. This angel has a wonderful sense of humor, and he uses all of it on Ben by deflecting his accusations with kindness and laughter. Eventually, even Ben learns to enjoy his comments and puns.

This film’s message is to appreciate your second chances. Before Ben’s meeting with God and Mike, he was only interested in making money, and lots of it. Now that he’s been given a second chance to see the true meaning of life, and what he has been missing, he will never be the same man he was before.

I give What If… 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025 as special screenings via Fathom Events.

What If …
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme.

The storyline is about a businessman who abandons his faith in exchange for worldly possessions. He gets a chance to see what his life would be like if he had followed his faith.

I like how love is displayed in such a powerful way. I like that Ben (Kevin Sorbo) and Wendy’s (Kristy Swanson) love is unbreakable, and they stick together as one big happy family. I did not like how Ben was stubborn and rude with God and how he brags about himself – he comes across as too prideful and arrogant. I do like how he shows kindness to the receptionist in the hospital. The main characters are Ben Walker, Wendy, Kimberly (Debby Ryan), Megan (Taylor Groothuis), and Mike the angel (John Ratzenberger).

Ben Walker is in an accident and wakes up in a dream and starts living the life he was destined for.  He marries a girl named Wendy and becomes a lead pastor at a small-town church.  There are many funny scenes, like one where the angel hits Ben too close to his eyes and then he teleports.  Also, at times Ben talks and no one understands what he says, not even his wife. This movie has a lot of sad moments – three scenes made me cry. The costumes are ok, although I did not like Mike’s old rusted costume, but I love Ben’s nice suit. I love the graphics because the quality is crisp although it’s an old movie. I like the office where he proposes, the house, especially the bedroom with the green decor.

And lastly I like the church, when the congregation is speechless after Ben’s speech. I also love the music, but the audio has some issues.

The film’s message is that you should always put God first in everything you do, no matter what, whether you are rich or poor, wise or fool; you should always follow the plan and the purpose that God has predestined for you.

I give What If… 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025, via Fathom Events.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro- futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family – Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Ben Grimm/The Thing and Johnny Storm/Human Torch as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer. And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other. If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!” Rayce S. adds, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly. It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films.” See their full reviews below.

Fantastic Four: First Steps
By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

It’s clobbering time! The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other.

If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!

The story centers around the Fantastic Four, Earth 828’s version of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The Fantastic Four soon find out that Susan Storm, The Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), is having a baby.

We then meet the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) who tells the team that she has summoned a terrible threat to destroy their earth. Who is this creature, and how does all this loop back to their son, Franklin?

With so many questions, the Fantastic Four sets off into space to try to save the planet.

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantasticin 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

Marvel’s “First Family” has never looked better! With a great set of ensemble actors – Pedro Pascal, Vanesa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach – leading the way, it’s no wonder this movie kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!

The storyline includes so many nods to the original comic books, including the Fantastic Four fighting a CGI-animated monster that was featured in their first comic book. Speaking of CGI, this movie is amazing making the world look seamlessly real in the “Mighty Marvel Manner.”

The cinematography, costumes, music, and set design really bring a 1960s vibe to life. The relationship arc between The Human Torch and The Silver Surfer is great – from frenemies to lovers and back multiple times.

One key trait of MCU films is the attention to detail. Things that many people might not notice are added to create real depth and surprise. For example, when Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) walks the streets, he wears a grey trench coat and a fedora. This is a nod to a costume he wore when he was separated from the Fantastic Four in the comics and a fun detail for fans.

(L-R) Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and 2025 MARVEL

The film’s message is that your community is a family. The film includes themes like the power of motherly love, fighting for what’s right, and the need for a global community. Parents should be aware that the movie includes fight scenes and scenes where the Fantastic Four are in perilous situations, including when they are escaping Galactus.

I give Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 25, 2025. Be sure to stay until the end of the first credits for a sneak peek at what’s coming next to the MCU.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly.

It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films.

Of course it wouldn’t be the same without its outstanding cast.

The storyline follows the Fantastic Four as they are forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond and they must defend Earth from a ravenously hungry space god, Galactus, and his Herald, The Silver Surfer.

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL

I truly adore this film for so many reasons, starting with its mixture of genres. Apart from the MCU it stands by itself as a space, comedy, romance or even a family sitcom that you would love. That is an important factor and this film blows it out of the park. The pacing and structure are some of the best I’ve ever seen. There’s never a dull moment and it is truly an experience worthy of your time. In terms of production aesthetics I love the set design – everything looks like it’s from the 40’s and 50’s which really makes it stand out and, even though the world looks old, the camera work and lighting are very contemporary. This is one of the most colorful and expressive MCU movies ever, but it would fall apart without the editing which is probably one of the best edited movies of the year.

It’s hard to name a standout in the cast but my favorite performance is from Pedro Pascal who plays Reed Richards. He really puts you into the situation that the team is in and the danger and fear that they feel.

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2025 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2025 MARVEL.

However you would not feel that danger or that fear without Ralph Ineson’s Galactus, whose dominating and demanding presence you feel in every word he speaks. As for the rest of the cast, Vanessa Kirby’s performance as Sue Storm made a huge impression on me. This film left me speechless for hours afterwards. If there’s one thing I truly recommend, it’s to see this movie in IMAX because it completely enhances your viewing experience when you see the scale of Galactus on the big screen. Plus, all the space shots and even the moments of seeing the family together feel bigger.

The movie’s theme is about family and how you move heaven and earth to protect them no matter what happens in life and that your family is what is most important. No matter what happens, you put them first.

I give The Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on July 25, 2025.

Coming-of-age can be difficult, but is always more bearable when you have someone who connects with you on a cellular level. Shari Lewis – a children’s television pioneer before Fred Rogers, Jim Henson, and others – was one of those people. She was a dancer, singer, and magician, but was best known as the ventriloquist behind sock puppets Charlie Horse, Hush Puppy and, of course, Lamb Chop. This heartfelt and entertaining doc charts the life, loves, and career hits and misses of the spunky perfectionist who forever changed the face of children’s television. Featuring ventriloquists she inspired and nostalgia-laden clips, this upbeat portrait brims, like Lewis, with warmth and charm.  Shari and Lamb Chop is the tonic we all need to reconnect with our inner children, and celebrate pure imagination.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.” See her full review and interview with the director and Shari’s daughter, Mallory below.

Shari & Lamb Chop
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 21

Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.

This documentary isn’t just a tribute, it’s a celebration of imagination, perseverance, and the enduring magic of storytelling.

What I love most about Shari & Lamb Chop is how it dives beyond the surface of fame to explore the personal journey of a multi-talented performer. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and rare home movies, the film shows how Shari Lewis redefined what it meant to connect with young audiences, on her own terms and in a male-dominated industry. The documentary balances entertainment and emotion in a way that feels honest and unforgettable.

This documentary is a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling and the legacy of pioneers who paved the way for joy and imagination.

The film tells the story of Shari Lewis, a Bronx-born performer who overcame a career-ending dance injury by channeling her creativity into ventriloquism. With her iconic sock puppet Lamb Chop, and other characters like Charlie Horse and Hush Puppy, she rose to national fame as one of the earliest stars in children’s television. The film follows her journey through the highs of early success, the disappointment of cancellation, and her incredible resurgence in the 1990s when she once again captured the hearts of a new generation.

The interviews are a major highlight. Ventriloquists and performers who were inspired by Lewis, as well as her daughter Mallory Lewis, offer touching insights and personal stories.

The archival clips of Shari’s performances are charming and delightful, full of wit, warmth, and timeless energy. One of my favorite parts is seeing Shari backstage, meticulously working on her characters and pushing herself to be better, not for fame, but because she believed in children and what they deserved from entertainment.

The message of this documentary is powerful: women can lead, innovate, and inspire, even in industries that underestimate them.

It also reminds us of the value in treating children as intelligent and imaginative individuals, something Shari Lewis always believed in.

There is no inappropriate content, and it promotes creativity, curiosity, and perseverance, making it perfect for families and classrooms.

I give Shari & Lamb Chop 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults who grew up with Lamb Chop or are discovering her magic for the first time. It opens in theaters on July 18, 2025 and will also be available digitally and on home video.