KIDS FIRST! News

In Agatha All Along, the infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself down and out of power after a suspicious goth Teen helps break her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards a witch with what they’re missing. Together, Agatha and this mysterious Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “Marvel’s Agatha All Along has me bewitched!  This show exceeded my expectations. It continues Agatha’s story after the events of WandaVision and is filled with suspense, mystery, dark comedy, and fantasy.” See her full review below.

Agatha All Along: Season 1
Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

(L-R): Teen (Joe Locke) and Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

Marvel’s Agatha All Along has me bewitched!  This series continues Agatha’s story after the events of WandaVision and is filled with suspense, mystery, dark comedy, and fantasy.

The story begins three years after Wanda has taken Agatha’s (Kathryn Hahn) powers. She has no powers and no recollection of who she is.  Under a spell, she believes she is a detective in a small town solving a murder. With the help of a teen (Joe Locke), the spell is broken.  She must form a coven and travel the witch’s road to regain her powers.

This show exceeded my expectations. It magically casts a coven of witches with great chemistry – Sasheer Zamata (Jennifer Kale), Rio Vidal (Aubrey Plaza), Alice Wu-Gulliver (Ali Ahn), Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone), Mrs Hart (Debra Jo Rupp).

(L-R): Mrs. Hart/Sharon Davis (Debra Jo Rupp), Ali Ahn (Alice Wu-Gulliver), Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone), and Jennifer Kale (Sasheer Zamata) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

The coven is hesitant to trust Agatha; her reputation precedes her. The witch’s road challenges the fears of each witch on their journey to release a curse and help Agatha regain her powers.  The witch’s road offers five houses with a trial at each. Each house is themed and focuses on a weakness or fear of a specific witch.  The trials bring chaos, suspense and self-doubt.  Through this adversity, each witch faces their own fears, and the coven forms a bond strengthening their resolve as they continue their journey.

Everything about this series is fabulous.  The scenes are elaborate and transition into dark, fantasy-creating, spell-binding effects. From living rooms and basements, from the witch’s road of glowing forests, all of the set designs and lighting bring this Marvel series to life.  The costumes are elaborate and reflect the theme of each house. Special effects, combined with music, make each scene suspenseful.

Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

Agatha’s character is self-centered, yet conflicted.  We see her as evil and yet cannot help but love her.

The show’s message is about teamwork and how trust and respect are proven through one’s consistent actions.  Viewers should be aware this contains witch horror, suspenseful scenes, partial nudity, foul language and other adult content.

Agatha All Along: Season 1 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The series streams on Disney + beginning Sep 18, 2024.

A nerf-herder discovers an artifact that twists the Star Wars universe, swapping the roles of heroes and villains. He embarks on an adventure to restore order and emerge as the savior who reassembles the fractured galaxy.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “Legends aren’t made, they are built!  I love LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy.  This four-piece animated special reimagines the Star Wars galaxy like never before.  It is funny and the cast is outstanding…This show is filled with heart, laughter, and the important message of believing in yourself. ” See her full review below.

LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy
Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 10

A scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

In LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, the entire Star Wars galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact called the Cornerstone from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.

LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy is full of comedy, action and incredible animation.  This show is filled with heart, laughter, and the important message of believing in yourself.

Imperial X-fighters in a scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved

It is a family friendly special and for fans of LEGO or Star Wars this is a must watch. I could not take my eyes off the screen.  The animation and visuals are stunning – I love when the light sabers light up and the flying sequences are awesome.

They could not have picked a better cast to voice these characters.  It features the vocal work of Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Gaten Matarazzo (Sig Greebling), Bobby Moynihan (Jedi Bob), Tony Revolori (Dev Greebling), Marsai Martin (Yesi Scala), Michael Cusack (Servo), and Ahmed Best (Darth Jar Jar). The writing is so smart and funny.

Jedi Bob in a scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

I think this movie will create a whole new generation of LEGO and Star Wars fans because it has something for everyone. This film teaches you to believe in yourself and to embrace teamwork.

I give LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy on Disney+ beginning September 13, 2024 on Disney +.

When Bikini Bottom and all its denizens are suddenly scooped out of the ocean, Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob SquarePants journey to Texas where they meet Sandy’s family and must save Bikini Bottom from the hands of an evil CEO.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalynn G. comments, “The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous, I laughed out loud at almost every joke! …Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case. See her full review and interview below.

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie
By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous; I laughed out loud at almost every joke! I love the new characters they introduce from Sandy Cheeks’ family. Their costumes are very creative.

The storyline follows Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence) and her friend SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) while they go on an adventure in Galveston, Texas to save their home, Bikini Bottom, and all their friends. An evil scientist (Wanda Sykes) captures their ocean companions including Squidward (Roger Bumpass) and Patrick Star (Bill Fagerbakke) to clone them and sell them as pets. Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob face many obstacles such as rattlesnakes and dogs while they rescue their friends.

This film brings all the laughs! Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case.  I also found it funny how the scientists wear cowboy hats and boots instead of normal lab coats. Every Texas stereotype is used, including their language. You hear, “I reckon and Dagnamit,” and everyone is riding a horse.

Sandy Cheeks shows her love for her hometown in a big way.  I love how they introduce Sandy Cheeks’ family. I did not expect a secret whistle to call everyone together. I also enjoy how Sandy Cheek’s family supports what Sandy wants to do since she doesn’t want to be in the circus and continue in the family business.

The film’s messages are about using teamwork to accomplish important tasks and a reminder that sometimes your friends are a part of your family.

I give Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. This film releases on Netflix Aug 2, 2024.

New school. New family. New superpower. It’s a season of change for 12-year-old Ben Vasani when he discovers that he can transform into anyone he meets. As a shapeshifter, Ben must figure out who he is and who he wants to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!” Ella S. adds, “I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.” See their full reviews and interviews below.

Me
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!

This show is about a 12-year-old boy named Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) who is anxious about his untrodden world. He has a new family, new school, and newly discovered powers. Luckily, he has a step-sister, Max, (Abigail Pniowsky) to help him traverse all of the peculiar surprises that pop-up. Viewers follow Ben as he tries to untangle the mysteries of his surroundings and finally discover his true self.

Me had my heart racing. All of the characters struggle with growing-up and figuring out who they truly want to be in this world. It is a relatable story with many twists and turns. The super power special effects are very realistic – from hands bubbling into new shades to swapping of ears. Furthermore, there is a storm that blows through the fictional town of Boatright that made me concerned for the fate of the characters. It has supernatural attributes twisted into a tornado-like beast. All of these are executed flawlessly.

All of the main characters are also perfectly cast. Lucian-River Chauhan’s performance as Ben made me believe that he was a nervous and unsure kid and my anxiety rose as I watched him navigate his surroundings. Max is the opposite of Ben. Abigail Pniowsky shines with her confidence as Max and his ability to keep Ben in check. The supporting actors help pull the show together. Carter Kennedy (Amanda Reid) scared me at first, but I quickly realized that she just might be the key to the mysteries that Ben and Max are trying to unravel. Darren Kennedy (Sharif Atkins) adds suspense to the story as well as introduces an important asset to the unsolved puzzle.

The film’s message is about discovery, learning what your gifts are and a reminder to not waste them. Be aware that the show does have some violence and dangerous activities.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The first ten episodes premiere globally on Friday, July 12, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Me
By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.

When 12-year-old Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) moves in with a new father and stepsister after his mother (Dilshad Valsaria) remarries, his life turns upside down. As Ben is adjusting to a new school and new friends he suddenly realizes he has the ability to shapeshift into anyone around him! The only problem is, he can’t control when it happens and who he becomes. Ben and his stepsister Max (Abigail Pniowsky) attempt to discover what triggers the shift and uncover the truth about his abilities, discovering much bigger secrets along the way.

The creators of Me had a brilliant idea and flawlessly executed it. It’s not every day we get to see a tween superhero. Me has just the right ratio of fantasy to real life that makes it relatable to tween and teenage viewers. For example, Ben struggles with being bullied, which unfortunately many kids can relate to. He faces the dilemma of whether or not he should use his powers to shapeshift into and expose the bully, Jason, because doing so would mean bullying another kid. The right decision is not always clear, especially to young people, because we are still learning from our experiences. Even though Ben has these extraordinary abilities, in many ways he is in the same boat as the rest of us, discovering who he is, what his values and beliefs are, and how to do the right thing. The “superhero” aspect of Ben’s life is balanced by his age.

Another feature of the show that caught my attention are the special effects, especially during the storm. The combination of the sight, sound, the actors’ reactions, and especially the angle from which it is shot makes it feel three-dimensional, as though you are standing inside the tornado. Special effects are also used to show the special abilities of some of the other characters, such as levitation and the ability to shoot ice on command. Superhero fans will enjoy this aspect of the show, plus it contains fast-paced battle scenes, acts of magic, and an interesting subplot following the secret society of PEOPLE behind Ben’s abilities.

The show’s message is that we are always learning about ourselves and discovering who we are. Your identity is unique and you should embrace who you are because there is no other person like you. No one can be you better than you can be. Be aware that this show contains many scenes of bullying, both verbal and mild physical violence, but no blood is shown.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, plus adults. Me releases on Apple TV on July 21, 2024.

Four Puffins, under the guidance of Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp), develop their superpowers and use them for good. When their home, Taigasville, comes under threat from the evil Otto von Walrus, Johnny Puff and co. embark on a secret mission.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “The animated adventure, Johnny Puff: Secret Mission is a colorful journey with Johnny Puff. I love how the characters’ unique personalities and superpowers come together in a classic, yet thrilling plot. The narration adds a comedic touch that keeps you entertained throughout the movie.” Avalon N. adds, “Johnny Puff: Secret Mission is an innovative and hilarious movie. This film has many unique components — most noticeable is that none of the characters speak. The only voice heard in the entire film is that of the narrator, Johnny Depp.” Gavin S. adds, “I thoroughly enjoyed Johnny Puff: Secret Mission for its imaginative storyline and dynamic characters. The film masterfully combines adventure and fantasy, and it is a captivating watch for audiences of all ages.” ChangYang L. wraps it up with, “This film is very imaginative and very organized, plus I’m impressed by the story development. It has a well-structured plot that beautifully showcases how the four Puffins use their superpowers for good and ultimately triumph over Otto the walrus.” See their full reviews below.

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 20

The animated adventure, Johnny Puff: Secret Mission is a colorful journey with Johnny Puff. I love how the characters’ unique personalities and superpowers come together in a classic, yet thrilling plot. The narration adds a comedic touch that keeps you entertained throughout the movie.

In Johnny Puff: Secret Mission, the peaceful town of Taigasville is threatened by the evil Otto von Walrus. Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp) and his team of four super-powered Puffins—Tic, Tac, Didi, and Pie—embark on a secret mission to save their home. The storyline is straightforward and predictable but executed in a charming and engaging way.

The characters are one of the highlights of the film. Johnny Puff is the wise and brave leader, while each Puffin has distinct traits that match their superpowers. The animation style might remind viewers of the Ice Age franchise, giving it a nostalgic feel. Although the movie lacks dialogue other than the narrator, it compensates with vibrant visuals and expressive characters. The narrator’s humor is a standout, adding a light-hearted and fun element to the film. One of my favorite parts is the dynamic between the Puffins and how their abilities complement each other during their mission. The special effects and animation bring their powers to life in a visually appealing way. The sets and locations are beautifully designed, creating an immersive environment that enhances the storytelling.

The movie’s message is about teamwork, bravery, and using your unique talents for good. It’s a positive theme that encourages viewers to value their individuality and work together to overcome challenges. The film promotes positive social behavior.

I give Johnny Puff: Secret Mission 3 out of 5 stars. It’s perfect for ages 5 to 12. You can find this movie in theaters and on major streaming platforms and DVD beginning July 12, 2024. Get ready for a fun-filled journey with Johnny Puff and his heroic Puffins!

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission is an innovative and hilarious movie. It incorporates a lot of different theatrical elements to add to viewer enjoyment.

This film is about the super puffins, specifically Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp) who has to save Taigasville from all the evil shenanigans that Otto von Walrus keeps pulling. Every ten to 15 minutes he tries something new and the super puffins must stop him from destroying the arctic. It is based on the TV series, Puffins.

This film has many unique components — most noticeable is that none of the characters speak. The only voice heard in the whole film is that of the narrator, Johnny Depp. The rest of the characters simply grunt and make other vocal noises, which allows the disagreements and plot to be up to the interpretation of the viewer. Another aspect of this film is its ever changing plot. Rather than just one big evil scheme throughout the film, Otto von Walrus constantly tries different things and continually gets defeated. It feels like a full TV season of ten to 15 minute episodes put into a fun, entertaining movie. The animation is very impressive; it uses an animation style that is not often used in movies which therefore makes the whole film much more interesting. The villain, Otto von Walrus, is more of a bully than a true evil villain, which makes the character relations even more unique.

The message of this film is to never give up and keep having fun because the world doesn’t stop for you.

I give Johnny Puff: Secret Mission 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8, plus adults. It releases in theaters and streaming on July 12, 2024.

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I thoroughly enjoyed Johnny Puff: Secret Mission for its imaginative storyline and dynamic characters. The film masterfully combines adventure and fantasy, and it is a captivating watch for audiences of all ages.

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission follows four Puffin friends, Tic, Pi, Dak and DD, who stumble upon a mysterious glowing meteor that grants them incredible powers. Alongside their retired rockstar friend, Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp), who can transform into a ninja through his music, they embark on an epic quest filled with challenges and discoveries.

The movie excels in character development and creativity, which are two aspects that particularly stand out to me. Tick’s ability to control nature adds a beautiful, almost poetic element to their journey. Pi’s super-strength provides both humor and heroism, while Dak’s technological prowess offers clever solutions to the group’s obstacles. DD’s ability to break the sound barrier and manipulate time introduces thrilling, high speed sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Johnny Puff’s transformation into a ninja through his music is a unique and entertaining twist that highlights the importance of following one’s passion. The film’s animation is vibrant and detailed, making the Puffin’s world come alive in a way that is visually stunning and deeply engaging.

The film’s message is about the power of friendship and teamwork.

I give Johnny Puff: Secret Mission 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12. This film releases July 12, on VOD, AVOD, Streaming, Online Retailers, and in theatres. Be sure to check it out

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission
By Changyang L., KIDS FIRST! age 19

Johnny Puff: Secret Mission is fantastic! The animation is top-notch, and it vividly chronicles the tale of four heroic Puffins using their extraordinary powers to defeat the villainous walrus, Otto von.

The story takes place in Tuss V., a tiny coastal town in the Arctic where four inseparable friends live among the Puffins. They’re naughty and playful and always looking for new adventures.  They find something even more valuable than any treasure – a meteorite that gives them incredible powers.

This film is very imaginative and very organized, plus I’m impressed by the story development. It has a well-structured plot that beautifully showcases how the four Puffins use their superpowers for good and ultimately triumph over Otto the walrus. The quality of the animation is great – the film constantly switches scenes along with the storyline, and the production is smooth. The background music changes with the development of the plot. For example, when the Puffins are stripped of their food source by Otto, they go to Otto to get back their food, fall into Otto’s trick, and are captured and taken to Otto’s base camp. Throughout this scene the background music is tense and creates a tense atmosphere.

The four Puffins include Tick, the littlest of the team, who is clumsy, naive and has a good heart. He is able to control nature. Pi is the giant of the group; he is moody and impulsive and never gets tired. He is unstoppably strong. Dak is the brains of the bunch; he examines everything very closely. Didi is the most self-absorbed of them all; her powers are being able to break the sound barrier and make time go slower. Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp) is a retired rock star who lives a peaceful life in harmony with nature and can transform into a sneaky ninja warrior. Otto von Walrus is famous for his craftiness and intelligence and his dirty tricks. At the end of the story, Otto’s mother visits Otto and instructs him to go on the right track. Under the influence of his mother, Otto gradually gives up his prank plan and reunites with the animals in the town. My favorite scene is the opening scene where Tick, Pi, Dak and Didi are introduced; it beautifully portrays the distinct personality traits of each little auk. It’s a captivating and engaging start that draws you into the story from the get go.

The film’s message is about the four little Puffins that accidentally discover meteorites with superpowers during their expedition, and they each acquire superpowers and use them for good things, and their secret mission to save the arctic Johnny Pop mission.

I give Johnny Puff: Secret Mission 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8.