KIDS FIRST! News

The iconic children’s animated series Stories to Remember is officially back! Newly remastered and re-released by Lightyear Entertainment, this award-winning collection brings beloved storybooks to life with stunning artwork, star-studded narration (James Earl Jones, Sigourney Weaver, Mia Farrow, Kevin Kline), and musical scores by legendary artists like Stewart Copeland (The Police). You can watch the entire collection for FREE right now on Tubi at geni.us/storiestoremember!

Here is what the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics have to say about these classic tales:

Noah’s Ark

• Narrated by: James Earl Jones | Music by: Stewart Copeland
• Accolades: Winner, Action For Children’s Television Award & KIDS FIRST! Best Award
• Rating:  4 out of 5 stars | Ages: 5 to 12

Based on Peter Spier’s Caldecott-winning picture book, Noah’s Ark tells the timeless Bible story entirely through vibrant visuals and James Earl Jones’s commanding narration.

 What the Critics Say:

• “I truly enjoyed watching Noah’s Ark. Its well thought-out script paired with detailed visuals make it pleasant to watch.” — Adele N.
• “This film is extremely different… the story is told entirely visually and is narrated by James Earl Jones.” — Ashish S.
• “An engaging retelling… it shares an important message about faith and perseverance in a way that is easy to follow.” — Ari S.

Watch the Video Reviews:

Review by Ashish S.: https://youtu.be/01Hx2uL8LQg

Review by Ari S., https://youtu.be/eUld7zHskdQ

The Snow Queen

• Narrated by: Sigourney Weaver | Music by: Grammy-winner Jason Miles

This acclaimed adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale served as the original inspiration for Disney’s Frozen. Featuring Sigourney Weaver’s gentle storytelling, it follows young Gerda’s brave quest to save her friend.

What the Critics Say:

• “A sweet tale of friendship, love, and bravery. The story, which contains many elements that inspired Disney’s Frozen, is engaging and moving.” — Kyla C.
• “The animation is unbelievable—everything is so fluid and lifelike… the entire film is beautiful to watch.” — Isabella V.
• “I absolutely love The Snow Queen because of the amazing animation, heartfelt storyline, and beautifully orchestrated music.” — Eli C.
• “This film brings the classic fairy tale to life through stunning visuals and Sigourney Weaver’s gentle narration, making it feel like an enchanting storybook.” — Elsy S.

Watch the Video Reviews:

Isabella V.: https://youtu.be/rQkcpCkWOd4

Eli C.:   https://youtu.be/Bk_cc8aYa4Y

Elsy S.: https://youtu.be/5D2_xHK5f54

Beauty and the Beast

• Narrated by: Mia Farrow | Music by: Emmy-winner Ernest Troost
• Accolades: Parents’ Choice Gold & International Reading Association Awards
• Rating: 5 out of 5 stars) | Ages: 5–12

Based on the original 18th-century French fairy tale by Madame LePrince de Beaumont, this award-winning storybook adaptation shines with hand-drawn character designs and Mia Farrow’s warm narration.

What the Critics Say:

• “I absolutely love Beauty and the Beast. Its sweet atmosphere, story-like animation, and wonderful narration had my eyes glued to my screen.” — IvyJoy C.
• “It is a very creative and entertaining film… The film displays many different ideas, including a new twist that is very cool.” — Adrianna R.
• “The animation is breathtaking; everyone is distinctly drawn, and their personality traits shine through in how they look.” — Isabella V.

Watch the Video Reviews:

Adrianna R.: https://youtu.be/vMDHOadQ_cw

Isabella V.: https://youtu.be/HcRQ-93Q6Ls

Merlin and the Dragons

• Narrated by: Kevin Kline | Music by: Michel Rubini | Artwork: Alan Lee (The Lord of the Rings)
• Accolades: American Library Association Notable Children’s Recording Award
• Rating: 4 out of 5 stars | Ages: 5–8

Scripted by famous author Jane Yolen, this exciting prequel to Arthurian lore follows young Emrys before he became the legendary wizard Merlin, as he discovers his magical destiny amid a mythic battle of dragons.

What the Critics Say:

• “I fell in love with this film. Its color scheme and animation choices are both nostalgic and comforting, but its unique plotline made me excited to watch.” — Adele N.
• “The way the story is delivered made me feel like a little kid hearing a story told to me by my mom… the remastered animation makes it feel like I’m watching a book.” — Ari C.
• “A heartwarming coming-of-age story about an outcast who realizes his differences are what make him who he is.” — Jackson N.

Watch the Video Reviews:

Adele N.: https://youtu.be/FeIW8An1JJc

Jackson N.: https://youtu.be/UEjdoH2Yqxw

Whether you are rediscovering these timeless tales or introducing them to a brand-new generation, the remastered Stories to Remember collection offers an incredible blend of classic storytelling, world-class music, and unforgettable narration. Gather the family, find your favorite cozy spot, and dive into these magical worlds today—all streaming completely FREE on Tubi!

Sofia the First: Royal Magic, a brand-new series set in the world of Sofia the First, follows Sofia as she attends The Charmswell School for Royal Magic, where she discovers she is the most magical princess in the realm and must learn how to master her powers while making new royal friends.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Julie O. comments, “I love the new series Sofia the First: Royal Magic! It is a fresh take on the original show that introduces new friends and challenges. It continues to be an inspiring and heartwarming show… The show’s messages focus on being kind, honest, and a true friend – these are the heart of this sequel, similar to the message of the original series.” See her full review below.

Sofia the First: Royal Magic
By Julie O. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the new series Sofia the First: Royal Magic! It is a fresh take on the original show that introduces new friends and challenges. It continues to be an inspiring and heartwarming show.

This next chapter for Sofia sees many returning characters voiced by the original cast. Ariel Winter returns to voice Sofia, as well as Wayne Brady as the voice of Clover. Sofia the First: Royal Magic, which is created by Craig Gerber, takes place at a new school called Charmswell School for Royal Magic, where Sofia is joined by other princes and princesses that have the ability to do magic. Miss Nettle (Anna Vocino) has opened the new school to share the wonder of the magic.

This fun animated series incorporates many details from the original Sofia the First series. I love seeing the same characters in a new storyline and appreciate the attention to detail that incorporates many aspects of the original series. The animation in Royal Magic is more vibrant and makes the fairy tale theme come to life. Sofia has new classmates, Prince Zane from Gloomshire, Princess Leela from Mezzouk, and Princess Camila of Maralinda. Sofia also gets help from a new animal friend Pepper who is a puppercorn.

I love the updated version of the opening song and enjoy the other new songs as well. They are fun, upbeat, and inspirational. My favorite part of the first episode is how the storyline already hints at the adventures Sofia will be facing in the series and that you get to meet her new friends and immediately jump into the story. She is a good friend and I love how encouraging she is to her new friends.

The show’s messages focus on being kind, honest, and a true friend – these are the heart of this sequel, similar to the message of the original series. Sofia is always a caring friend that places value on team work and recognizing ones’ true potential.

I give Sofia the First: Royal Magic 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases on Disney Jr, May 25, 2026 and on Disney+ May 26, 2026.

Taylor Swift’s concert film captures the magic of her record-breaking tour, featuring backstage moments and special performances with fellow artists, while sharing personal insights from her closest circle.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critics Adele B. comments, “Taylor Swift: The End of an Era is a six episode series showing the strongest moments and struggles of Swift’s Eras tour. I was captivated by the raw emotions of Taylor, her family and those working on stage and behind-the-scenes.” Kinsley H. adds, “This series is full of heartfelt experiences and emotions. Swift’s dedication to her fans, crew, family, friends, and others who come into her life is inspiring. The film takes time to not only look at Swift’s life but also the people who contributed to making the tour a success.” Kyla C. wraps it up with, “This six-episode docu-series provides insight into how Swift’s team made this happen, with behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, performer spotlights, and peeks into Swift’s personal life.” See their full reviews below.

Taylor Swift: The End of An Era
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I found Taylor Swift: The End of An Era so inspiring. This six episode docuseries follows Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour that took place from 2023 to 2024. It provides behind-the-scenes access to all the twists and turns that happened during this tour of epic proportions.

This docu-series covers Swift’s journey through the ground breaking Era’s Tour which ran from March 17, 2023 through December 8, 2024. It showcases everything from scary terrorist threats to her personal love story. It highlights many of the tour’s performers showing that Taylor Swift is not afraid to share the spotlight. She states multiple times throughout the series how she doesn’t want her performers to blend in but to stand out as individuals. Everyone has a story, and people should always feel bigger than they are. Swift’s professionalism comes through as we see how she started her journey and became the superstar that she is today.

This series is full of heartfelt experiences and emotions. Swift’s dedication to her fans, crew, family, friends, and others who come into her life is inspiring. The film takes time to not only look at Swift’s life but also the people who contributed to making the tour a success. The personal segments about individual tour dancers give a new perspective to Swift’s ability to make sure everyone gets respect and acknowledgement for what they put into the show. The show really highlights the raw emotions of each individual and showcases their resilience to fight through everything from cancer to the challenges they overcame on their path to success. We see how Swift takes time to show her appreciation.

In one episode, Swift is shown writing handwritten notes to all members of the show and how she met with each one of them individually. Taylor Swift’s impact on the world is huge and her creativity and drive is the fuel to her success. She is constantly creating, and does everything she can to provide a positive escape for her fans as well as herself. The tour helped her find her purpose while creating a bonding experience for thousands of fans across the world.

The film’s message is about the importance of accepting all people. Allowing individuals to be unfiltered is small, but meaningful. Her impact is widespread. Be aware that this series has mature themes and strong language.

I give Taylor Swift: The End of An Era 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available on Disney+ beginning December 23, 2025.

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era
By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era gives us the opportunity to discover what made the difference between a regular high-grossing tour and the experience of a lifetime! This six-episode docuseries provides insight into how Swift’s team made this happen, with behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, performer spotlights, and peeks into Swift’s personal life. We get a full look into what it is like to live the life of Taylor Swift as she performs one of the most remarkable tours of all time and its mind boggling.

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era focuses on Taylor and her journey throughout The Eras Tour. From the tiny plastic stage models to the live concerts with over 70,000 attendees each, the viewer gets a glimpse into how this tour was created.

The episodes generally follow chronological order, with the first episode focusing on pre-tour rehearsals and the last episode showing the tour’s conclusion and lasting impact. The docuseries spotlights many of the dancers, singers, band members, and backstage workers.

Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour set records in nearly every measurable aspect of a musical tour– spreading across countless countries, earning billions of dollars in revenue, and generating jaw-dropping attendance both inside and outside the stadiums. However, the true accomplishment of this tour simply can’t be described by statistics. This 21-month sensation of a pop phenomenon changed not just economies; it impacted each and every concert attendee on a personal level.

Considering The Eras Tour’s incredible success, it’s natural that both devoted Swifties and outside observers would be interested in how this tour came to be. This series absolutely delivers in answering my questions. It dives deep into the stage effects, dance rehearsals, song choices, guest appearances, costume design, acoustic set mash-ups, and so much more.

A highlight in each episode is the performer spotlights. Whether showcasing one of the dancers or a costume designer, we get a close look into not only their work for the tour, but also their personal life and accomplishments. This provides a well-rounded view of the tour, as it shows the personal journeys of those who were vital to the tour becoming such a phenomenon.

Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era continues to exceed my expectations through its emotional reach. Each episode is guaranteed to leave the audience with laughs, tears, and most importantly, smiles. Despite the presence of some unimaginably tragic obstacles that the tour’s performers, fans, and attendees faced, the tour continued delivering the audience what they needed: an escape from the constantly changing world around them. Taylor emphasizes this throughout this series as she shares both personal and large-scale difficulties that occurred throughout the tour and how she knew her priority had to be showing up for the fans and giving them the experience they both paid for and expected. The docuseries portrays this purpose with such clarity, painting a picture of not only the tour itself but the goals and vision Swift had for the tour.

This series expresses the purpose of The Eras Tour, which was to provide a space for people to join together, escape from the outside world, and have the time of their lives. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and family within a work environment, showing how this promotes positivity and unity both on and off of the stage throughout the tour. Note that it does include some profanity and some mature topics, such as a detailed discussion about attempts at violence on the tour.

I give Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can view all six episodes of Taylor Swift: The End Of An Era on Disney+ beginning December 23, 2025.

Taylor Swift: The End of an Era
By Adele B. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Taylor Swift: The End of an Era is a six episode series showing the strongest moments and struggles of Swift’s Eras tour. I Was Captivated By The Raw Emotions Of Taylor, Her Family And Those Working On Stage And Behind-The-Scenes. The music and camera work pairs well with the emotional depth of the tour story and it kept me wanting to watch until curtain closed.

The series gives us a thorough understanding of what it took to create Swift’s record-breaking 18 month tour. Each episode layers the logistics of producing this show and gives insights into the tremendous dancers and musicians that share the stage with her. We see the special relationships Taylor forms with her team in rehearsals that come to life on stage. The series also displays collaborative moments with fellow artists and the impact they had on the tour. The real life struggles that happened alongside the tour are showcased with emotion and care. I love how the series highlights Taylor and who she is as a person, what goes into her songwriting, the tour’s vision, and the people that surrounded her to make this amazing tour happen.

The people who contributed to the 149 shows across the world come to life in this series. You can feel how special they all are and how they each are part of the story. I was inspired by one of Taylor’s  dancers, Kameron, who talks about how people always made him feel like he had to change himself if he wanted to be successful. He says that Taylor never made him feel that way and she was incredibly welcoming and supportive. I was brought to tears more than once. One moment that really stands out to me is when there was an attack on the tour. Taylor emotionally talks about how that moment was not only very scary for her and her team, but devastating for her fans. Her fans ultimately are what gave her the motivation to show up and give the best show to bring happiness during a dark time.

I love the portrayal of Taylor as an iconic performer and also as a human with real ups and downs. She shares that when one of her singers has health struggles. I also enjoyed how perfectly the moments in the tour match Taylor Swift’s songs to reflect and bring them to life. Moments that resonate with me are the quick wardrobe changes and seeing the countless fans showing up for her performances.

Authenticity and personal drive are themes woven throughout the series. It shows us that people from all backgrounds, with their own stories, can come together to experience joy in a fun and meaningful way.

I give Taylor Swift: The End of an Era 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. All six episodes are streaming on Disney + as of December 23, 2025.

What are the best movies and TV shows for kids and families of 2025? While the year started slowly in cinemas, streamers quickly raised the bar. Kicking off the year were major home releases like Aardman’s Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (Netflix) and StuGo (Disney+). Theaters quickly followed with family-friendly hits like Autumn and the Black Jaguar and Universal’s Dog Man.

The year gathered pace with blockbuster hits that our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics rated highly. February delivered five-star reviews for Captain America: Brave New World, Paddington in Peru, and The Unbreakable Boy. March brought excitement with Plankton: The Movie and the much-discussed Snow White (a KIDS FIRST! favorite), alongside The Electric State.

The major studios offered big swings in the spring and summer: April premiered Andor: Season 2 and Sea Lions of the Galapagos (Disney+). May saw Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Disney’s live-action Lilo and Stitch, and the return of Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan in Karate Kid: Legends. June was dominated by Disney-Pixar’s Elio, F1® The Movie, and the live-action How to Train Your Dragon. Later, we enjoyed summer tentpoles like Smurfs, Superman, and the touching documentary Shari & Lamb Chop.

The fall was strong, featuring The Bad Guys 2 (August), Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (September), and the cinematic event Wicked: For Good (November), alongside Zootopia 2 and Sarah’s Oil. Closing out the year in December are top contenders Avatar: Fire and Ash, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw, and Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2.

Not every title mentioned is a blockbuster, but all are worthy of notice. Our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics reviewed over 385 films and TV shows in 2025, including many independent features and shorts submitted to our KIDS FIRST! Film Festival, which partners with venues nationwide.

Read on to see our entire list of what KIDS FIRST! believes are the best films and TV shows of 2025 — a year so strong we included over 70 titles! Click on the link below.

Best2025movies

Season two of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is based on the second installment of Disney Hyperion’s best-selling book series titled “The Sea of Monsters” by award-winning author Rick Riordan. In the new season, Percy Jackson returns to Camp Half-Blood one year later to find his world turned upside down. His friendship with Annabeth is changing, he learns he has a cyclops for a brother, Grover has gone missing, and Camp Half-Blood is under siege from the forces of Kronos. Percy’s journey to set things right will take him off the map and into the deadly Sea of Monsters, where a secret fate awaits the son of Poseidon.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I got an early look at the first four episodes of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 and it is incredible.  The season picks up right where the previous season left off and each episode is filled with action, adventure, humor, and it kept me on the edge of my seat.” See her full review and interviews with Author/co-director/producer Rick Riordan and cast members below.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, Age 11

I got an early look at the first four episodes of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 and it is incredible.  The season picks up right where the previous season left off and each episode is filled with action, adventure, humor, and it kept me on the edge of my seat.

This season adapts the second book in the series, The Sea of Monsters, following Percy, Annabeth, and a cyclops named Tyson as they journey into the Sea of Monsters to find the Golden Fleece and save Camp Half-Blood.

This series offers an amazing mix of magic, friendship, and epic quests that really shines with its amazingly talented cast.

Walker Scobell returns as Percy Jackson, bringing humor and bravery to the character, while Leah Sava Jeffries plays Annabeth Chase with intelligence and heart.

Aryan Simhadri reprises his role as Grover, adding both comic relief and loyalty that make him a fan favorite. New characters are introduced this season, including Daniel Diemer as Tyson, the lovable Cyclops, who is also Percy’s paternal half-brother, the son of Poseidon.

The settings are spectacular – Camp Half-Blood feels even more immersive, from the cabins and training grounds to the surrounding mythical landscapes. The costumes are on point, reflecting each character’s personality and role while staying true to the books. The action sequences are thrilling and well-choreographed, and the CGI brings creatures and magical effects to life in a way that’s both believable and exciting. The story balances moments of humor, friendship, and tension perfectly, making it feel like an epic adventure that’s also deeply personal for the characters.

This series is about courage, friendship, and staying true to yourself even when the odds are stacked against you.

It shows that heroes aren’t defined by their powers alone, but by their choices, loyalty, and willingness to do what’s right.

Season 2 reminds viewers that teamwork, trust, and perseverance can overcome even the most impossible challenges, and that growth often comes through facing your fears head-on.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

It premieres on Disney+ on December 10, 2025, with the first two episodes available that day and the other six episodes roll out weekly.