KIDS FIRST! News

PHINEAS AND FERB – Key Art (Disney)

The new season of “Phineas and Ferb” follows the inventive stepbrothers as they tackle another 104 days of summer. Candace is more determined than ever to finally bust her little brothers while their pet platypus, Perry, continues to lead a double life as the suave Agent P whose sole mission is to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz from taking over the Tri-State area.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic IvyJoy C., comments, “I absolutely love Phineas And Ferb because it brings back so many memories. Phineas and Ferb’s silly antics give me the thrill I have been looking for, and I always find it funny when Phineas and Ferb’s inventions disappear when Candace is about to show her mom.” Junior R adds, “This outrageous and wacky show is perfect for summer viewing… What I really love about Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is how it keeps getting cooler with every episode. Phineas is always full of excitement and ideas; and Ferb is quiet but super smart and helpful.” Mark S. wraps it up with, “Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is hilarious and made me laugh a lot. I love that they still do the running joke of Candace trying to bust her brothers, but it fails every time in a very funny way, and they continue the main plot from previous seasons.” See their full reviews and IvyJoy’s talent interviews below. Here’s our coverage of the premiere:

Phineas And Ferb: Season 5
By IvyJoy C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Summer Block Buster” (Disney) Phineas

I absolutely love Phineas And Ferb because it brings back so many memories. Phineas and Ferb’s silly antics give me the thrill I have been looking for, and I always find it funny when Phineas and Ferb’s inventions disappear when Candace is about to show her mom.

This exciting new season continues to follow the creative brothers as they tackle another 104 days of summer vacation. The dastardly Dr. Doofenshmirtz (Dan Povenmire) is back at it again with his silly “-inators,” only to be thwarted by Perry the Platypus (Dee Bradley Baker). Candice (Ashley Tisdale) is determined to bust them finally. In the process of Candice trying to bust her brothers, both terrible and wonderful things happen.

Phineas and Ferb is one of my all-time favorite shows and seeing it return after all this time had me jumping for joy.

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Model Pack” (Disney) PERRY

After 10 years, Phineas and Ferb is back and better than ever! In this new season, Phineas (Vincent Martella) and Ferb (Daved Errigo Jr.) are just as inventive, creative, and outside the box as they were in previous seasons. I love how they continue to make so many whimsical and wacky inventions; each one better than the last. Kudos to Dan Povenmire and Jeff Marsh. Not only do they continue to voice character such as Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz and Major Francis Monogram, but they also continue to create this series. I really like how the animators keep the same style of animation.

I love the acting of Alyson Stoner, Maulik Pancholy, and Bobby Gaylor, as Isabella, Baljeet, and Buford. After all these years, they keep their bullying, nerdy, and lovable personalities. I love how they keep their fun style of music.

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Summer Block Buster” (Disney) CANDACE

My favorite part, as always, is when Candace is about to show evidence to her mom, but then it disappears.

This season teaches us a few lessons. It teaches that love conquers all, and reminds us that with determination and focus you can do anything. Note that there is mild violence between Perry the platypus and Dr. Doofenshmirtz.

Phineas And Ferb: Season 5 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The new season launches the Disney Channel and Disney XD on June 5, 2025 and on Disney+ the next day.

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5
By Mark S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Model Pack” (Disney) DOOFENSHMIRTZ

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is a great show that is funny and entertaining! The show has great visuals and graphics. The episodes are easy to follow and understand, and the songs are great too.

My favorite episode from Season 5 is Episode 2, Cloudy with a Chance of Mom, where Phineas (Vincent Martella) and Ferb (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) have to save Mom (Caroline Rhea), who has been vaporized and turned into a cloud while saving the tri-state area. Dr. Doofenshmirtz (Dan Povenmire) has an evil plan to make Mom cloud into a Mom STORM. Candace (Ashley Tisdale) and Perry the Platypus (Dee Bradley Baker) help the brothers in saving the day in ways that made me laugh a lot.

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is hilarious and made me laugh a lot.

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Summer Block Buster” (Disney) PHINEAS, FERB

I love that they still do the running joke of Candace trying to bust her brothers, but it fails every time in a very funny way, and they continue the main plot from previous seasons. The dad seems so goofy that he really stands out and is really entertaining. The jokes are very easy for young kids to get and laugh at, and also are funny to adults and older kids. The show has a very unique type of visuals in how the characters look that makes the story easy to follow. It also has very rich colors that make it look nice and clean to the eye.

Like the previous seasons, Season 5 is a funny kid’s show with an underlying message that you can always count on family to be there for you. Also, it’s a reminder to not mess with platypuses.

I give Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 a solid 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The new season launches the Disney Channel and Disney XD on June 5, 2025 and on Disney+ the next day.

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Model Pack” (Disney) PHINEAS, FERB

Hey, guess what? There’s another 104 days of summer vacation and Phineas and Ferb are back for more fun in Season 5! This outrageous and wacky show is perfect for summer viewing.

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is 20 animated episodes full of fun, inventions, and crazy summer adventures. Phineas (Vincent Martella) and Ferb (David Errigo Jr) come up with awesome ideas every day, like building gecko gear and driveable carnival games, while their sister Candace (Ashley Tisdale) tries, and fails, to bust them. Meanwhile, their pet platypus Perry is secretly Agent P (Dee Bradley Baker), who fights the goofy evil scientist Dr. Doofenshmirtz (Dan Povenmire). The episodes are fast, funny, and filled with songs that made me want to sing along.

The animation is really colorful and detailed, and I love how the music is different in every episode—it’s catchy and fun, like a mini-concert!

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Summer Block Buster” (Disney) DOOFENSHMIRTZ, NORM

What I really love about Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 is how it keeps getting cooler with every episode. Phineas is always full of excitement and ideas; and Ferb is quiet but super smart and helpful. Candace is so hilarious because she always thinks she’s about to finally bust her brothers, but something always happens to stop her. My favorite character is Perry because his entrances to the office get wilder each time he visits, and they always have me guessing.

My favorite part is when the gang take on Phineas and Ferb’s mom.  It is a true Mom Storm. Every episode makes me wish summer vacation could be that cool in real life. This season offers great messages about the power of teamwork, the importance of using your imagination, and making the most of every moment.

PHINEAS AND FERB – “Summer Block Buster” (Disney) LINDA, CANDACE

It maintains a family-friendly tone throughout.

Phineas and Ferb: Season 5 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The new season launches the Disney Channel and Disney XD on June 5, 2025 and on Disney+ the next day.

Be sure to check it out!

In 2023, KIDS FIRST! began a partnership with Ukraine Matters to create an online film festival for children in Ukraine and for Ukrainian refugees. We are returning this September with a 2^nd edition, entitled “Love Changes Everything” that will focus on international short and feature films designed to uplift and inspire.

We have launched a fundraising campaign to support the festival and 50% of all proceeds will go directly to our Ukrainian partners. Your donation will help make this happen.

https://fundrazr.com/KIDSFIRST-Ukraine-FilmFestival

“Continuing our partnership with KIDS FIRST! for a second year is incredibly meaningful,” states Volodymyr Goshyly, President of Ukraine Matters. “After three years of war, Ukrainians are experiencing profound PTSD. These films, brimming with love and compassion, will offer vital inspiration and healing.”

“This collection is a testament to the resilience and hope we see in our friends in Ukraine,” says Nancy Kenney, VP of KIDS FIRST!

Ranny Levy, President, emphasizes, “We began our film festival partnership with Ukraine Matters two years ago  and are excited to expand this year to bring these powerful and supportive stories for their youth and families.”

Leading up to the festival, beginning August 1, KIDS FIRST! will present a series of interviews with program creators to discuss the films featured in the “Love Changes Everything” collection. These young and independent filmmakers (ages 9-65), come from all over the world and represent some of the best new works by emerging filmmakers.

Expanding the Reach of Meaningful Cinema

Beyond this collaboration, KIDS FIRST! invites non-profit organizations worldwide to co-host local festivals or individual film screenings of this curated film collection. Whether at established film festivals, children’s museums, schools, or libraries, KIDS FIRST! can offer your organization an opportunity to help support our friends in Ukraine.

Since 2020, KIDS FIRST! Film Festival has drawn thousands of cinephiles globally, showcasing the powerful work of independent and student filmmakers. KIDS FIRST! Film Festival is a project of the Coalition for Quality Children’s Media, a national non-profit (501-c-3) organization dedicated to promoting quality media for children since 1991.

https://fundrazr.com/KIDSFIRST-Ukraine-FilmFestival

Our lives are the sum of our choices. Tom Cruise is Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an outstanding film that I really like. It is packed with action and adventure, all while being so suspenseful and compelling. I was on the edge of my seat during the entire movie, and was completely engaged the whole time.” Charlotte L. adds, “…filled with all we expect from a Mission: Impossible movie — crazy plans that somehow manage to work, constant danger, incredible stunts, and suspenseful scenes… all the more impressive when you realize that Tom Cruise does his own stunts… Katherine S. wraps it up with, “… an absolutely action-packed movie, taking a more serious and grave tone than the previous installments of the series. It’s full of constant high-tension and emotional moments, and insane stunts, as always. See their full reviews below.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Mikella G, KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 19

Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an outstanding film that I really like. It is packed with action and adventure, all while being so suspenseful and compelling. I was on the edge of my seat during the entire movie, and was completely engaged the whole time.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning brings us right back into this world, where Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) must complete one final mission. This time though, the weight of the world is ultimately in his hands. He has a very small amount of time to find the Entity and, if he is unsuccessful, humanity as we know it will be destroyed.

The suspenseful storyline is its biggest standout. It’s incredible how even after seven movies, the eighth and final one is still so entertaining. I was completely immersed in this film. Almost every single scene feels like a big drop on a roller coaster.

Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt and Simon Pegg plays Benji Dunn in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

Even though it is almost 3 hours long, it certainly doesn’t feel that long. There was never a moment when I got bored, or tired of it. On the contrary, the non-stop excitement fills the room. Watching it in the theater also felt very special, because it was almost as if the entire audience was on the journey together. We gasped and laughed together. It’s very special for a film to bring a group of people together who have never met before, to have a cathartic experience, and that is the effect that this movie had on my audience. Another major standout is Tom Cruise’s stunt abilities. In every movie of this franchise, Cruise proves himself time and time again, and for this final film he pulls out all the stops. Everything is real; no green screens were used. From plane chases to falling from the sky, it always amazes me at the limits he pushes to get the perfect shot.

Tom Cruise on the set of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

This film has a lot of underwater work. I learned that Cruise trained to be able to hold his breath for long amounts of time –  his dedication is truly inspiring. Additionally, the cinematography is another aspect that is top notch. The underwater scenes are particularly captivating. The audience really gets a feel for how deep and dark the ocean is. I could almost feel the stillness and quietness of the ocean. Lastly, the sound effects really enhance this movie. In every scene I could hear every sound as if I was actually there – from the wind, to the submarine sounds, to the heavy breathing and gunshots, everything is accounted for. When you sit down to watch this movie, be prepared to be completely consumed into the Mission: Impossible franchise.

The film’s message is to live life without regrets and remember that no singular action defines who we are. Be aware that there are many fight scenes, and violent weapons used.

I give Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning releases in theaters May 23, 2025.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14

Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt, Pom Klementieff plays Paris, Greg Tarzan Davis plays Degas, Simon Pegg plays Benji Dunn and Hayley Atwell plays Grace in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

I really like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning because the storyline drew me in; the story combines the old and the new, and the acting is really well played. .

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning continues the storyline of the previous Mission: Impossible films. It follows Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team including some of our favorite returning characters such as Benji Dunn (Simon Pegg), Luther Stickell (Ving Rhames), and Grace (Hayley Atwell). Once again, Hunt and his team find themselves on a daring mission to save the world.

The storyline of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is paramount — continuing the story of previous films with a short recap of part one of this story. It is filled with all we expect from a Mission: Impossible movie — crazy plans that somehow manage to work, constant danger, incredible stunts, and suspenseful scenes.

Ving Rhames as Luther in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

This seems all the more impressive when you realize that Tom Cruise does his own stunts, which are found in abundance in this movie. Examples of stunts worth looking forward to are Ethan Hunt hanging off a plane and parachuting out of the sky. The suspenseful scene makes you nervous because, even though it’s Tom Cruise, so you know he’ll be okay, you can’t help but feel scared for him. The music, acting, and lightning contribute to this and make it seem as if Hunt is truly in danger.

This movie combines old and new characters also; the new characters and aspects of the plot blend so well together that it seems almost like real life. The acting is spectacular! Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt so well and Simon Pegg, as Benji, plays a comedic, yet loyal and determined character incredibly well.

This movie is packed with humorous remarks, not only from Benji, but from all the characters.

Tom Cruise plays Ethan Hunt in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

Another notable performance is by Ving Rhames who plays Luther. Although Luther doesn’t play as big of a role in this film as he has in previous ones, he definitely enhances this film.

The message of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is that your choices can affect others more than you expect.

I give Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 23, 2025.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Tom Cruise on the set of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an absolutely action-packed movie, taking a more serious and grave tone than the previous installments of the series. It’s full of constant high-tension and emotional moments, and insane stunts, as always. It is definitely long but has a solid way to end the entity’s storyline (maybe?).

Now that Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) has retrieved the cruciform key, the next step in destroying the rogue AI – “The Entity” – is finding the Podkova, which contains the original code of the AI and is at an unknown location at the bottom of the sea. So, Ethan and his team must travel the globe and find the Podkova before The Entity gains control of every nuclear arsenal and launches them, annihilating the world. It’s a cautionary tale about AI and offers a scary view into the future of artificial intelligence’s power.

If you haven’t watched Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1 you should do so because it is the first part of this movie, but you don’t need to watch any of the other earlier ones to understand the story, but long-time fans  will enjoy all the references to past movies in this one.

Nick Offerman, Charles Parnell, Angela Bassett, Mark Gatiss and Janet McTeer in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

Even though this is the eighth film in the Mission: Impossible franchise, running at just under three hours – the longest Mission: Impossible movie yet – and has the word “final” in the title, it’s unknown whether this will be the last assignment for Ethan Hunt after almost 30 years of missions. Almost all of the stunts in the Mission: Impossible movies are performed by Tom Cruise and always seem to outdo each other, but the stunts in this movie are so crazy that even professionals said they were impossible, but Tom Cruise was able to make them happen. There’s a wing-walking stunt between two planes in this film –  this isn’t the first time Cruise has done stunts with planes, but in this particular situation, the original stunt teams said his vision was not possible. However, Cruise defied the odds and was able to do an extremely dangerous and extremely impressive wing-walking stunt. Along with all of these action-packed and impressive stunts, there’s also a lot of fast-moving images and flashbacks to past movies, so I would advise you to be cautious while watching this movie if you are photosensitive. Ethan Hunt and his team, Benji (Simon Pegg), Grace (Hayley Atwell), Paris (Pom Klemenieff) and Degas (Greg Tarzan Davis), have such good chemistry and, despite being so different, they work so well together. Ethan spends a lot of time apart from his team, but his care for these people is so apparent. Some of these characters are on opposite sides of the original conflict, so it is very interesting to see their bonds grow through everything they encounter in this movie.

Tom Cruise on the set of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning from Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

The stunts in this movie are so crazy that even professionals said they were impossible, but Tom Cruise was able to make them happen. Ethan Hunt and his team, Benji (Simon Pegg), Grace (Hayley Atwell), Paris (Pom Klemenieff) and Degas (Greg Tarzan Davis), have such good chemistry and despite being so different, they work so well together.

The film’s message is that teamwork and determination can make the impossible possible. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, intense fighting scenes, very gruesome situations and death. I do not recommend this movie for photosensitive or sound-sensitive viewers, as well as people who are sensitive to violent scenes.

I give Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This movie releases in theaters on May 23, 2025.

Lilo & Stitch is a 2025 American science fiction comedy film directed by Dean Fleischer Camp and written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. The story is about a lonely human girl named Lilo who adopts a dog-like alien named Stitch to mend her fractured family, unaware that Stitch is genetically engineered to be a force of destruction, and is being pursued by aliens and social workers, while Lilo teaches Stitch the idea of family.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine comments, “I enjoyed Disney’s new live action remake Lilo & Stitch. It keeps the nostalgia of the original movie while giving it a fresh, real-life twist and is one of the better recent live action remakes.” Isabella V. adds, “Lilo & Stitch is such a beautiful movie, not only visually but also in its story. I was in awe at so many points and felt so many emotions throughout the movie thanks to the incredible cast and crew.” Avani M. wraps it with, “This film’s message is about family. This is a big theme in this story. No matter how much trouble Lilo or Stitch cause, they stay as one big family with Nani. We are also reminded that it is okay to be different. Lilo is different from other kids her age and is made fun of.” See their full reviews below.

Lilo & Stitch
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

(L-R) Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

I enjoyed Disney’s new live action remake Lilo & Stitch. It keeps the nostalgia of the original movie while giving it a fresh, real-life twist and is one of the better recent live action remakes.

Lilo & Stitch (2025) brings the adored animated film of the same name from 2002 to life. Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a lonely Hawaiian girl who lives with her older sister, Nani (Sydney Agudong) after their parents sadly pass away. Lilo discovers an adorable, but very chaotic fugitive alien named Stitch (Chris Sanders), who she teaches the meaning of “ohana,” which means family, while he helps mend her own.

This remake stays pretty true to the original story with a few minor differences and the addition of a few new characters.

(L-R) Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

I love the designs of Stitch and the other aliens, like Pleakley and Jumba, as they stay very true to their original characters from the animated version but have more realistic textures and qualities to fit a live action movie. Stitch somehow looks even more adorable as a live action alien, kind of reminding me of Baby Yoda. Maia Kealoha, who portrays Lilo, is precious and I was rooting for her the whole way. This movie is her big screen debut, and she is incredibly talented, especially considering that her co-star is completely CGI. Nani and Lilo’s bond is explored more in this movie which I like as they really emulate a sibling relationship, but I wish that more of Stitch and Lilo’s bond was explored as their connection feels a little rushed.

Chris Sanders returns to voice Stitch’s iconic voice which really helps keep the magic of the original movie as most of the other characters are played by new actors.

(L-R) Amy Hill as Tūtū and Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

One of my favorite characters from this movie is a new one, Tutu, played by Amy Hill. She actually had a small role in the original film, and now she plays the sweet and lovable neighbor of Lilo and Nani. Overall, I definitely prefer the original animated Lilo & Stitch movie from 2002 but this version is still worth the watch for young kids and Stitch fans.

The film’s messages are about the importance of fighting for your family and a reminder that everyone is capable of change. It also displays the importance of strength, resilience and forgiveness during difficult times.

I give Lilo & Stitch 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on May 23, 2025.

Lilo & Stitch
By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

(L-R) Sydney Agudong as Nani, Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Lilo & Stitch is such a beautiful movie, not only visually but also in its story. I was in awe at so many points and felt so many emotions throughout the movie thanks to the incredible cast and crew.

Taking place in Hawaii and based on the 2002 animated film, the story follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a little girl struggling with being in a broken family, as she befriends Stitch (Chris Sanders), an alien hiding from being captured once again. Through this relationship, her small family attempts to stick together while keeping this strange pet.

The film’s cinematography is gorgeous with so many wonderful shots capturing the beauty of the Hawaiian island of Oahu where it was shot. I love the shots on the water, especially when Lilo, Nani, and Stitch are surfing.

(L-R) Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Agudong as Nani in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo by Matt Kennedy. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The soundtrack also adds to the film and fits the mood needed for each scene. The upbeat songs during the surfing scenes or when Lilo and Stitch are playing are particularly enjoyable. The acting is incredible; all the actors have great chemistry with each other. The standout is the relationship between Lilo and her sister Nani (Sydney Agudong), who genuinely feel like they are sisters. I found myself becoming attached to the characters and getting emotional at times. The humorous script and the actors’ comedic timing are impeccable.

The CGI is extraordinary – everything is so detailed, especially Stitch.

The film’s message is about families sticking together, regardless if they are related by blood or not. Be warned that there are some intense fighting sequences.

I give Lilo & Stitch 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. It releases in theaters on May 23, 2025.

Lilo & Stitch
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Lilo (Maia Kealoha) in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo by Matt Kennedy. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Disney’s live action Lilo & Stitch brings a fresh retelling of the classic story about the sense of family. I like how the film combines beautiful settings and themes of love, acceptance and family.

Set in the Hawaiian Islands, the story of Lilo and Stitch follows a girl with a really big imagination named Lilo (Maia Kealoha). Throughout the story, she and her sister, Nani (Sydney Agudong), struggle with the loss of her parents and Lilo feels out of place in her community. Then one day, Lilo meets a strange creature who she thinks is a dog named Stitch (Chris Sanders). At first, Stitch does nothing but cause destruction in their household. This provides an even bigger challenge for Nani because she has stepped into the role of a parent. Originally Stitch was exiled from his own planet, but after seeing the bond of their family, the Grand Councilwoman (Hannah Waddingham) lets him live with Lilo.

Grand Councilwoman voiced by Hannah Waddingham in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

I love the setting on the island of Oahu; it is filled with vibrant colors and beautiful trees and flowers. The acting is terrific, especially newcomer, Maia Kealoha, who is incredible as Lilo. Her tone brings a mix of happiness and sadness at different times; she never fails to have great facial expressions and reactions. Sydney Agudong is awesome in the role of Nani; she is great at showing her love, strength and how stressed she is when trying to be a good mother. And I really love the relationship between Lilo and Nani because it is so nice how they always believe in each other. I also love how in times of struggle, they manage to work together. Chris Sanders comes back to voice Stitch. Even though Stitch doesn’t talk as much, Chris Sanders puts lots of emotion into his growls and little laughs.

One of my favorite characters is Agent Cobra Bubbles played by Courtney B. Vance. At first, Vance shows up as an intimidating character, but as the movie continues, we see that he only wants what is best for the girls. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family and the film talks about how nobody in your family gets left behind or forgotten.

This film’s message is about family. This is a big theme in this story. No matter how much trouble Lilo or Stitch cause, they stay as one big family with Nani. We are also reminded that it is okay to be different. Lilo is different from other kids her age and is made fun of. Stitch doesn’t know how to fit in and thinks that he is just tearing the family apart. However, the two sisters and Stitch find a way to keep going and work hard.

I give Lilo and Stitch 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 23, 2025

A fun and adventurous Panda travels from China to Africa to rescue his best friend, Dragon, who has been kidnapped by the lions. On his journey, he discovers a completely unknown world and faces frightening hippos, suspicious hyenas, and wise gorillas. Relying on his wits and some newfound friends, he makes his way across Africa, before rescuing his friend Dragon and saving his new friends’ jungle home.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Josephine K. comments, “Panda Bear in Africa is outstanding! The storyline is captivating and thematically rich. Many characters share words of wisdom that make the film inspirational.” Eli C. adds, “I love Panda Bear in Africa. It is funny, well animated, has an amazing storyline, and great voice acting. It kept me entertained and laughing through the whole movie.”  Jude A. adds, “One thing that is very noticeable is the panda bear’s bravery; it broke my heart to see the panda risk everything to save his friend’s life. In addition to his warm-hearted personality, Panda Bear is emotional, thoughtful, responsible and goofy.” Avani M. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is that friendship always prevails. There are many friendships in this story — the biggest being the one between Pang and Jielong. Even though he knows it will be hard, Pang does everything in his ability to get his friend back.” See their full reviews below.

Panda Bear in Africa
By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Panda Bear in Africa is outstanding! The storyline is captivating and thematically rich. Many characters share words of wisdom that make the film inspirational. I enjoyed the creative humor and witty comments throughout the film.

The story unfolds in a picturesque village in East China. Pang (Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing) and his dragon friend, Jielong (Georgina Verbaan) live a somewhat charmed life until Jielong is captured and taken to Africa. In an effort to save her, Pang goes on a treacherous journey across the sea through unknown territory with challenges around every turn. On this journey Pang meets new friends and uses his moral compass and good heart to guide his way.

This film is phenomenal! The storyline is well done and impressive. Pang’s adventure is riveting and the characters he meets along the way open up when he embraces them with kindness. I like the wise comments in the film such as “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Putting these wise words into the film adds a level of depth relatable to many. The humor is abundant throughout the film mainly from the lion prince Ade (Namisa Mdalose). The humor is child appropriate and enjoyable for all ages. My favorite part is the lion prince’s birthday party because many animals bring him some hilarious gifts. My favorite character is Niala (Candice Modiselle) because she is guarded and salty at the beginning but becomes friendlier toward the end of the film.

There are many messages to this film such as kindness can get you farther than hostility. Also, if you choose to search outside your comfort zone, you may surprise yourself. These messages are successful and evident as the story progresses. The messages are very positive and uplifting as well as inspirational on many levels.

I give Panda Bear in Africa 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases digitally and on DVD May 13, 2025.

Panda Bear in Africa
By Eli C., KIDS FIRST Film Critics, age 9

I love Panda Bear in Africa. It is funny, well animated, has an amazing storyline, and great voice acting. It kept me entertained and laughing through the whole movie.

The storyline is about a young panda bear named Pang (Yootha Wong Loi Sing) and his young dragon friend, Jielong (Georgina Verbaan). After an unfortunate series of events, Pang must embark on a painstaking journey all the way from Asia to Africa. During his journey he makes a few new friends, such as JoJo the monkey (Maurits Delchot) and Niala the hyena (Candice Modiselle). He also makes an enemy, Malum the lion (Silas Lekgoathi).

Panda Bear in Africa is filled with ridiculous scenes and jokes that kept cracking me up. Even the characters themselves are hilarious. Props to the animators for using the CGI to the fullest. They use it to the absolute best of their capabilities to make everything so beautiful. The sand, water, trees, even the animals are wonderfully done. I have to commend Richard Claus and Karsten Kiilerich for both writing and directing this movie. The script is fantastic and it had me wondering what was going to happen next. It also kept my eyes open while I sat at the edge of my seat. I could feel all the emotions the main characters were expressing. I especially love the voice acting of Yootha Wong Loi Sing. He really captures a goofy, childlike personality for his character. The casting is really good all across the board. The music department really succeeds at making the music match the scenes. It really helped immerse me into the film. As much as I love this film, the one thing that is missing is character development – the characters are pretty much one dimensional. Other than that, this is a great film. My favorite part is when Jielong’s self-pep talk goes terribly wrong and she is then faced with a duo of dastardly animals which complicate her plans.

The film’s message is to be yourself no matter what. It also reminds us that we don’t need to be overly concerned about what other people think. What matters is your opinion.

I give Panda Bear in Africa 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12. This movie releases on DVD and digital platforms on May 13, 2025.

Panda Bear in Africa
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film critic, Age 10

I like the film Panda Bear in Africa, because of its adventures and the Nigerian accents. l also like how the panda is so warm-hearted and genuine. I like how the dragon always supports the panda in everything he does – and it goes both ways. In everything they do, they are so intertwined; it’s almost like their brains are connected.

The film is about a warm-hearted panda bear (Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing) dreaming of going across the world with his dragon friend when suddenly the dragon gets kidnaped by Africans and is taken to Africa to become a pet. Her brave warm-hearted panda friend comes to her rescue with the help of a monkey named JoJo (Maurits Delchot).

One thing that is very noticeable is the panda bear’s bravery; it broke my heart to see the panda risk everything to save his friend’s life. In addition to his warm-hearted personality, Panda Bear is emotional, thoughtful, responsible and goofy. The other characters help us better understand the panda bear’s personality. I didn’t like how JoJo is always leaving the panda and running away. However, I do really like the ending when he comes to help the panda. I also like Ade (Namisa Mdalose), because he’s funny – after every sad scene he brings happiness. This movie taught me to think about how jungle animals live and take care of each other. I like how The Lion King and Kung Fu Panda are referenced. I love the adventures in this movie. They made me jump out of my seat every time something exciting happened. I also like how they combine Asia and Africa here. The graphics are crisp and realistic – making the audience feel as if you are a part of the movie. Another notable element is how the jungle is shown in both countries. I also like the lighting; it makes the jungle look so real. The darkness is real as well.

The film’s message is that bravery knows neither size nor boundaries. It’s a reminder to always be brave, courageous, and strong and never be shy.

I rate Panda Bear in Africa 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases on streaming and DVD/Blu-ray on May 13, 2024.

Panda Bear in Africa
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Panda Bear in Africa is a cute, heartwarming animated film full of fun characters, vibrant colors, and great messages. I enjoyed the animation, the characters and all the lessons the movie teaches along the way.

Pang (Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing) is a young panda from an idyllic village in China. His best friend, Jielong the dragoness (Georgina Verbaan) is kidnapped, so he travels from Asia to Africa in order to rescue his friend. Once Pang arrives, he meets all kinds of African animals that either help or slow his journey down.

The animation is so bright and vibrantly colored! The greens of the jungle and red and yellows of Pang’s home town make me feel like I am right there with Pang. However, I was disappointed that Pang and the other animals are not so cute, the landscapes are not particularly detailed and the lion’s rock feels very flat. However I do like how lions and hyenas are part of the story. I love how every animal has its own personality and skills that, in the end, are used to help Pang find his friend. At first, they don’t work together so well, but eventually they learn to work as a team. The voice actors are expressive and fit each character with a unique and interesting personality for each one. Pang has a gentle tone that shows how caring he is. He helps everyone in need even if it means risking something and giving people multiple chances. Georgina Verbaan, who voices Jielong has a very upbeat tone and sounds very positive all the time, even when she is captured. Maurits Delchot plays the very talkative monkey, Jojo. He is energetic and provides comedic relief for the story.  Jojo accompanies Pang on his journey and guides Pang through Africa.

The film’s message is that friendship always prevails. There are many friendships in this story — the biggest being the one between Pang and Jielong. Even though he knows it will be hard, Pang does everything in his ability to get his friend back. Another message is that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This is taught to Pang by the captain of the boat that takes Pang to Africa. And last, Pang realizes that everyone deserves a second chance. He also learns that being brave isn’t just about not being scared, but also willing to do what is right.

I give Panda Bear in Africa 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases on streaming and DVD/Blu-ray on May 13, 2024.