KIDS FIRST! News

Ironheart follows Riri Williams, a genius inventor and the titular hero, after the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. She returns to Chicago and confronts a conflict between technology and magic, becoming entangled with Parker Robbins, also known as “The Hood,” as she pursues her ambitions. The series explores Riri’s journey as she evolves as a hero, navigating challenges and making difficult choices while dealing with government scrutiny and her own unique perspective on heroism.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Maica N. comments, “What do you get when you mix advanced technology with a little bit of magic? Ironheart answers that question in bold style. Riri Williams returns from her adventure in Wakanda, hoping to find herself in her hometown of Chicago. What she didn’t expect was the danger and new obstacles waiting for her.” Kinsley H. adds, “Ironheart brings edge-of-the-seat entertainment that includes everything from exciting videography, shocking magic, and ground-breaking technology.” Tiana S. adds, “A new shero has entered the Marvel universe and she’s ready to show off her genius! Ironheart is filled with action, mystery, and a whole lot of surprises.” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “I appreciate how well everything fits together in this series.  The plot has plenty of different layers, each intertwining and bringing depth to the series.  An event may take place that seemed rather simple, but later I saw how it impacted the whole storyline.” See their full reviews below.

Ironheart
Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

What do you get when you mix advanced technology with a little bit of magic? Ironheart answers that question in bold style. Riri Williams is back from her adventure in Wakanda, hoping to find herself in her hometown of Chicago. What she didn’t expect was the danger and new obstacles waiting for her. The newest Marvel mini-series, Ironheart, uses impressive CGI, convoluted character development, and unforeseen plot twists that kept me engaged throughout each episode.

The story follows genius MIT student Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) as she returns home and begins putting the finishing touches on her own Tony Stark–inspired iron suit. In the process, she finds herself entangled in a conflict with a mysterious group of underground criminals led by the cynical, yet enticing Parker Robbins (Anthony Ramos), also known as The Hood. With magic and tech colliding, Riri must encounter the unknown and step into her role as a young superhero, to protect those she loves.

Ironheart will get viewers excited for the future of Marvel heroes, and give them a fresh story to become invested in. Riri’s new suit is one of the visual highlights of the series. The intricate design which combines various metal components and channeling electricity feels both believable and deliberately planned, leaving audiences wanting more from the series. However, the limited number of action scenes makes it feel slightly rushed, leaving little room to fully explore the protagonist–antagonist dynamic. The show does use well-placed flashbacks to display Riri’s backstory and motives. Dominique Thorne, first introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), shines in the lead role. She brings a spirited, youthful energy to the series, while also becoming a relatable figure for teens and young adults grappling with internal struggles.

One of the most commendable aspects of Ironheart is the way the writers utilize physical objects to help portray the message of the series. Both Parker’s coat and Riri’s suit are used to shelter their pain, preventing them from dealing with the disarray in their minds. However, they must realize that in order to grow as an individual they need to forgive themselves and face their emotions head on.  

I give Ironheart 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can find the first three episodes of Ironheart on Disney Plus beginning June 24, 2025 followed by three more on July 1, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Ironheart
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Ironheart is a six-part TV series that brings the comic book character, Riri Williams (Dominique Thorn), to life. Every episode is nail biting and left me waiting eagerly to see what would happen next. I had a lot of fun watching this show.

This series is about Riri Williams, a struggling genius who is determined to earn recognition for her scientific achievements and desire for greatness leads her into multiple unfortunate events that change everything in her life. Most notably she is approached by Parker Robins aka “The Hood” (Anthony Ramos) who convinces her to join a “team” of washed up criminals that want a second chance at life. Riri does not want to miss the opportunity to reach her life’s dream, so she makes a choice that derails her life and causes things to turn rotten quickly.

Ironheart brings edge-of-the-seat entertainment that includes everything from exciting videography, shocking magic, and ground-breaking technology. It is amazing how the camera work helps display the chaos that is happening in each scene.

The images flow with the people and are always moving during action sequences. It also is interesting how the past is integrated into the present so flawlessly like it is melting in and out of the scene. The use of magic is not apparent in the beginning, but slowly it becomes a part of the story through characters and other events. The magic in the end just might be what saves the day.  My favorite character in the show is N.A.T.A.L.I.E (Lyric Ross), Riri’s AI sidekick that comes to life through brain scanning technology. N.A.T.A.L.I.E offers comic relief in serious moments and does amazing things as an artificial intelligence creation that kept me engaged in the story both visually and emotionally.

The show’s message is to break yourself down in order to see what you’re made of at the core. Everyone has the potential to be a hero. Be forewarned that this show does have violence and material that is inappropriate for younger audiences.

I give Ironheart 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available for streaming on Disney+ beginning June 24, 2025 with the first three episodes and the last three premiering on July 1, 2025.

Ironheart
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Ironheart is a strongly formulated addition to the Marvel universe.  Cutting edge technology, creative ties to other Marvel entities, and a well-rounded and complex plot invent a new six-episode series that is a suitable addition to the timeline.

Ironheart follows the life of teenage genius Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) as she tries to make her mark on the world by designing the most advanced iron suit since Iron Man. However, any great build takes resources and, unfortunately for Riri, those are hard to come by.  Trying to bring her idea to fruition, she teams up with Parker Robins (Anthony Ramos), also known as The Hood, and his ragtag team of “less than legal” individuals to get the job done.  But when the tables turn, she must figure out who her true friends are if she wants to survive.

I appreciate how well everything fits together in this series.  The plot has plenty of different layers, each intertwining and bringing depth to the series.  An event may take place that seemed rather simple, but later I saw how it impacted the whole storyline.  Mystery is around every corner and kept me guessing until the end. It also incorporates past Marvel titles into the mix quite well, keeping the classic feeling of one continuous world.  The banter between the members of the team is stellar.  No matter the situation they find themselves in, they don’t lose their ability to effectively communicate with one another.  Speaking of which, one of my favorite scenes is when Riri and her team are busy working on repairing her suit, and I could sense the connection the cast must have had while filming.  The chemistry and backstory between them all is evident, and gives that moment a special atmosphere. Directors Samantha Bailey and Angela Barns brought out terrific performances from this cast. However, a few of the scenes might be unsettling for some audiences as this series is rather intense compared to other Marvel shows.

This series’ message is to always keep trying to achieve your dreams.  While Riri’s actions may not set the best example, her spirit and dedication shine through and reveal her good intentions. Be aware that there is quite a lot of profanity, a few scenes of witchcraft, and instances of crime.

I give Ironheart 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. Ironheart is available on Disney+ beginning June 24, 2025 with the first three episodes; the last three premiere on July 1, 2025.

Ironheart
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

 

A new shero has entered the Marvel universe and she’s ready to show off her genius! Ironheart is filled with action, mystery, and a whole lot of surprises. This series entertained me for hours, while wanting to watch more. Ironheart makes waves for fans as Marvel Phase 5 comes to an end, keeping us on our feet.

Ironheart is an upcoming American television miniseries that follows the story of Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), a young genius MIT student and Chicago native. After Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri is inspired by Tony Stark, wanting to create something great like her own Iron suit; the only problem is she needs the funds for it. She meets Parker, a.k.a Hood (Anthony Ramos), the leader of a criminal group who’s working to get rich and offers her money to join them. Riri now has to balance her secret job, her grief, and her life to try to become the person she truly wants to be.

The main characters are Riri, Parker, “N.a.t.a.l.i.e” (Lyric Ross), Hood, and Hood’s crew. What I love about Ironheart is that she doesn’t try to be another Iron Man. She is genuinely just a young woman who is striving to carry on his legacy in her own way. Riri spends a lot of time tending to other people and risking herself to follow her dream. She loses a lot due to being blinded by her goal and doing anything to get there. But through the trial, Riri realizes how much she is sacrificing her own morals. When she finally figures out what she needs, she can break her chains and follow her true dream. Director Ryan Coogler captures the essence of her story and even the Black community, through family, connection, and struggle. Ironheart is the perfect blend of Iron Man, Black Panther, and even Captain America movies. It gives me the same “old” Marvel vibes while feeling new and relatable. My favorite character is Hood. His character is dark and mysterious; he’s not afraid to get what he wants and, despite coming off as a typical criminal leader, he has his own specialties and secrets. Though the six episodes tend to be over 40 minutes, the show kept me engaged and is definitely on my top list of Marvel’s Phase 5 productions.

The show’s message is to stay true to yourself.

I give Ironheart 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can stream the first three episodes on Disney+ on June 24, 2025 and the last three on July 1, 2025.

Elio, a space fanatic underdog with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure when he is inadvertently beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organization with representatives from galaxies far and wide. Mistakenly identified as Earth’s ambassador to the rest of the universe, he starts to form new bonds with eccentric aliens, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions all while discovering who he’s truly meant to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “Elio is one of Disney’s and Pixar’s greatest hits yet.  A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won’t soon be forgotten.” Zoe C., adds, “What an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they’ve gone above and beyond with Elio. This film is something truly special – it’s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging.” Zoey F. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is about the importance of finding your true family. Elio shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that Elio includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.” See their full reviews and interview with Yonas Kibreab, who plays Elio, below.

Elio
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Elio is one of Disney’s and Pixar’s greatest hits yet.  A streamlined, but not shallow plot, characters that evoke senses of compassion and friendship, and state-of-the-art graphics create a truly out-of-this world feature that won’t soon be forgotten.

This film follows a boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab) as he tries to make contact with aliens, believing no one wants him on Earth.  When he finally does, he is greeted by countless species, and starts making friends left and right, but it’s not all fun and games.

Lord Grygon (Brad Garrett) intends to crash the party, and he’s not taking no for an answer.  If Elio wants to stay, he and his new bestie, Glordon (Remy Edgerly), must find a way to reason with the warlord, keep the community safe and, along the way, find his place in the universe.

The concept of an alien hangout leaves much room for creativity, and the production team brought their best – the result is nothing short of extraordinary.  No matter where I looked in this feature, everything was bursting with color.  The animation is full and complete, with even the little details standing out, leaving me in awe of the work put into creating this film.  Elio and Glordon’s friendship is a source of constant humor, with the duo getting into all sorts of adventures – big ones like jumping from a high loft into a whirlpool, or just enjoying a nice cup of glorp while watching the twinkling cosmos.

It may seem challenging for Elio’s life on Earth to compare with his time in space, but it is a necessary comparison.  Zoe Saldaña portrays Elio’s aunt Olga, who is trying to show Elio that life happens down here, not in the stars.  Though it seems to put a damper on his fun, it captures the sense that you can’t have the ability to play without putting in the work.

The plot is simpler and more concise than some of Pixar’s other movies, but in no way less put together.  Twists and cliffhangers still abound without being needlessly complicated, further securing Elio as a feature to remember.

This film’s message is that you are never alone.  Though you may not get aliens asking for a play-date anytime soon, there is always someone there to talk with you, walk with you, and just be with you. Note that there are few scenes of space violence, and one where Elio is about to get beat up by a few kids from Earth.

I give Elio 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18. Elio releases in theaters June 20, 2025.

Elio
By Zoë C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

What an incredible film! Pixar has created some classics over the years but they’ve gone above and beyond with Elio. This film is something truly special – it’s a visually stunning, emotionally rich, and deeply imaginative film that takes you on a journey not just through space, but through the heart and mind of a young boy searching for belonging. Beyond that, the story line is truly a roller coaster of emotions in the best way possible.

The story follows a young boy named Elio (Yonas Kibreab), who is navigating the world after the loss of both of his parents. He now lives with his aunt (Zoe Saldaña), but struggles with feelings of isolation and not fitting in. Elio is completely fascinated by aliens and hopes to be abducted by them as he believes there is no place for him on earth and thinks that maybe someone in space could love or understand him.

When a mysterious message from outer space calls for Elio he finds himself transported into the “Galactaverse,” a vibrant intergalactic world full of curious creatures, unexpected friendships, and endless adventure. For the first time, Elio feels like he belongs, but as he builds connections and discovers his place among the stars, he must also confront the question of where and with whom he truly belongs.

One of my favorite aspects of this film is its storyline. The plot is surprisingly deep and emotionally grounded, especially for a film intended for children. Pixar often handles complex themes, but Elio takes a bold step by addressing grief, identity, and the universal desire to feel understood. The film doesn’t shy away from heavier emotions and instead embraces them with empathy and honesty. This aspect of the story adds a layer of emotion and connection to humanity. It’s common for kids to feel as if they don’t fit in and, the way this film portrays this, is so beautiful. Elio portrays that inner struggle in a way that feels both accessible and profound. Visually, the animation is out of this world. I love how the animators use color and lighting to reflect Elio’s emotional journey.

Earth is portrayed with a subdued, muted palette, symbolizing Elio’s sadness and disconnection. While the Galactaverse is filled with vivid colors that reflect the excitement and comfort Elio feels in this new world. The creative designs of the alien characters and settings are incredibly fun to watch. The voice acting is also amazing. Yonas Kibreab, who voices Elio, brings such authenticity and warmth to the role. You can feel every ounce of Elio’s hope, fear, and curiosity throughout his performance. One of my favorite characters is Glordon, an adorable alien, voiced by Remy Edgerly. Glordon is Elio’s first real friend in the Galactaverse, and Edgerly’s sweet and gentle voice makes the character instantly lovable. Their friendship is a beautiful part of the story and adds so much heart to the film.

I love the message of this film: there’s a place for everyone, you just have to allow yourself to find it.

I give Elio 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. You can catch Elio in theaters beginning June 20, 2025. Don’t miss it!

Elio
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I enjoyed watching the movie Elio with its outstanding voice acting, animation, and themes. The movie is outstanding except for a minor plot hole.

The storyline follows Elio (Yonas Kibreab), a creative boy whose passion is trying to get abducted by space aliens. After Elio’s parents suffer a tragedy, Elio moves in with his strict Aunt Olga (Zoe Saldaña) and continues trying to fulfill his goal he writes “aliens abduct me” in lights in the sand. Elio’s prayers are answered and he is taken to another galaxy where he joins them under the false “Leader of Earth” title. He ends up negotiating with the ruthless Lord Grigon (Remy Edgerly), who is trying to destroy the whole galaxy, but Elio has a trick up his sleeve and not only does Elio need to please the aliens, but he needs to figure out how to stop his aunt from being suspicious.

The whole movie, Elio really feels like a breath of fresh air. Not only is every character executed well, but they do so without being too “corny.” Elio is a very relatable character, and he is very fun to watch! He teaches the audience what it feels like to not to fit in and want to belong. Elio is on a journey of finding his people. I really enjoyed the humor in this film. The banter between Elio and his aunt is outstanding. A memorable incident is when Aunt Olga pulls out a parenting book and asks Elio to explain which emotion he was feeling. Elio is extremely humorous without being too repetitive or corny. A part of the film that I feel is underdeveloped is the plot, especially Elio’s relationship with his aunt. At the beginning of the film, she is not giving Elio enough attention or love.

Then, later, when Elio returns from space, she is suddenly the perfect mother-figure, and everything is alright. It feels that the relationship is rushed and it is unclear where exactly Elio and Aunt Olga stand with each other.

When Elio is gone, we do not see Aunt Olga missing him at all, but it seems that the audience is supposed to assume that she did. Aside from that, the plot runs pretty true.

The film’s message is about the importance of finding your true family. Elio shows us that life is not always perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to see who really values you. Please be advised that Elio includes flashing images that may affect photosensitive viewers.

I give Elio 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It opens in theaters on June 20, 2025.

 

Ten-year-old Angelo dreams of becoming an explorer and a zoologist. When he hits the road with his family to visit his beloved granny, his distracted parents leave him behind at a rest stop. Left to his own devices, Angelo decides to cut through the forest in search of his family. He enters a dark and mysterious world inhabited by strange creatures, some friendlier than others.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoey F. comments, “Into the Wonderwoods is an extremely worthwhile watch. It explores adventure, friendship, fighting, and magic. My favorite aspect of this movie is the animation. I give a big shoutout to the animators Coline Veith, Samuel Devynk, and Michael Tenner Wijaya Oei who created this film.” Ariel K. adds, “This film is a great pick for anyone who loves fantasy, magical creatures, and stories about being brave. One of the things I like best about Into The Wonderwoods  is how creative Angelo’s world is. The forest feels like a place from a dream, filled with ogres, grumpy clouds, and even a creature made of grass and dirt.” Anna Clara B. wraps it up with, “Into The Wonderwoods is a magical animated film that really engaged me. I like how the film, in addition to having memorable characters, is super involved with current problems and resolutions.”  See their full reviews below.

Into the Wonderwoods
By Zoey F, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Into the Wonderwoods is an extremely worthwhile watch. It explores adventure, friendship, fighting, and magic.

The storyline follows Angelo who dreams of becoming an adventurer, but sadly can only embark on imaginary ones. His family doesn’t take him seriously; it seems like the only thing he can do is be a “slaphead,” the nickname he earned from his brother, Leo. Tragedy strikes when Angelo’s Gran (Yolande Moreua) falls fatally ill and the family takes a long journey to Gran’s house. Somehow, the journey distracts them, and no one seems to notice that Angelo is left behind in a magical forest. Not far away, Ultra (José Garcia), a totalitarian space alien is determined to find the grail of eternal life –so much so that he is threatening to destroy the forest. Not only does Angelo need to stop him, but he also needs to figure out how to catch up with his family and see Gran.

My favorite aspect of this movie is the animation. I give a big shoutout to the animators Coline Veith, Samuel Devynk, and Michael Tenner Wijaya Oei who created this film. I particularly love the magical forest because it really puts “wonder” into “Wonderwoods.” I also love all the characters in this movie. I like that the main villain, Ultra, is also a misunderstood funny guy. His humor makes the movie a billion times more fun to watch! Another great character is Angelo. He is an adventurer at heart, but at times he struggles and doesn’t believe in himself. As he slowly becomes the hero of the woods, the audience sees him grow in confidence. This is an extremely important theme to communicate to people of all ages, although the movie is primarily geared to a younger audience.

The film’s message is to value yourself and be your own soldier. We see this explored as Angelo decides to follow his dream and takes a stand that no one will define him. Please be advised that this movie includes minor profanity and flashing images that may be overwhelming to photosensitive viewers.

I give Into the Wonderwoods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD June 24, 2025.

Into The Wonderwoods
By Ariel K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

 

I really liked Into The Wonderwoods because it is fun, imaginative, and full of adventure that kept me interested the whole time!

The story revolves around a 10-year-old boy named Angelo who dreams of becoming a brave adventurer. When his family goes on a road trip to visit his sick grandma, something unexpected happens – they accidentally leave him behind at a rest stop. Instead of waiting for help, Angelo decides to take matters into his own hands and cuts through the mysterious forest in the direction of his grandma’s house. While on his journey, Angelo meets all kinds of strange creatures – some friendly, some not-so-friendly. Angelo has to overcome challenges in order to find his granny.

This film is a great pick for anyone who loves fantasy, magical creatures, and stories about being brave. One of the things I like best about Into The Wonderwoods  is how creative Angelo’s world is. The forest feels like a place from a dream, filled with ogres, grumpy clouds, and even a creature made of grass and dirt. He’s my favorite. I also like how the story shows that being brave doesn’t mean not being scared – it means facing your fears. Angelo doesn’t have any superpowers, just his quick thinking and kind heart, which makes it easy to cheer him on.

The background music adds to the magical feeling, especially during the more intense scenes when Leo is being chased or trying to solve a mystery.

The animation is colorful and detailed, making every part of the forest feel alive. The effects are amazing and really stand out. The exposition is easy to understand and follow along. My favorite part is when the creature made of grass eats a bomb. If there was one thing I would change in this movie it’s that Angelo says “mommy” too much and that it is weird how the small ogre girl Zaza kisses Angelo all the time and talks about him being her boyfriend.

Into the Wonderwoods is a heartwarming, exciting story that mixes adventure, magic, and friendship. It shows that even when things go wrong, we can find courage inside ourselves and maybe even discover a little wonder along the way.

I give Into The Wonderwoods 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. It is available on VOD beginning June 24, 2025.

Into The Wonderwoods
By Anna Clara B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Into The Wonderwoods is a magical animated film that really engaged me. I like how the film, in addition to having memorable characters, is super involved with current problems and resolutions.

The storyline is about Angelo (Dario Hardouin-Spurio), a 10-year-old boy who dreams of being an adventurer. His family doesn’t take him seriously. His dreams are high, but unexpected things happen and the solution depends on the little boy’s determination and sense of adventure.

The film’s animation is wonderful, with great camera angles and adorable supernatural characters, including the forest itself.

For example there is a shiny mythical creature, like a firefly, that calls the boy. Not only do all the characters move, but the entire forest moves as well and that enchanted me, in part because it induces the boy to follow the story. I like that the film deals with serious issues, such as deforestation, in a way that everyone can understand, but particularly children. For example, we see an animal happily flying and it comes across these things falling from a spaceship and it gets scared – both the animal and the place are destroyed.

The story is very intriguing; I could really relate to the characters and become empathetic with their situation. For example, his family takes a long journey and Angelo’s parents get distracted and Angelo gets left behind in a magical forest – he doesn’t know what to do, because he is just a child. During that scene, I was intrigued by his situation and wondered what Angelo would do. But Angelo comes through and becomes as brave and adventurous as he is in his dreams. The adventures are fundamental to his development and make him stronger and braver throughout the film, just as he dreamed. The background music is essential to the film. When Angelo is in the backlands the music relates to the location and makes us dive into the scene along with him. My favorite part is when Angelo is watching something with the other animals; the scene is in black and white which gives it a vintage vibe, bringing to light an interesting era, like the beginning of the world of animation.

The film’s message is to remember to dream and not pollute the environment. Don’t let anyone take your dreams away from you.

I give Into The Wonderwoods 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film releases on VOD June 24, 2025.

Dubbed “the greatest that never was,” Sonny Hayes was FORMULA 1’s most promising phenomenon of the 1990s until an accident on the track nearly ended his career. Thirty years later, he’s a nomadic racer-for-hire when he’s approached by his former teammate Ruben Cervantes, owner of a struggling FORMULA 1 team that is on the verge of collapse. Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one last shot at saving the team and being the best in the world. He’ll drive alongside Joshua Pearce, the team’s hotshot rookie intent on setting his own pace. But as the engines roar, Sonny’s past catches up with him and he finds that in FORMULA 1, your teammate is your fiercest competition—and the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Rayce S., comments, “F1® The Movie is really good with some of the best cinematography I’ve ever seen; and the way the movie looks isn’t the only thing to rave about, there’s also great characters and terrific performances…The film’s message is that without teamwork you cannot accomplish anything.” See his full review below.

F1® The Movie
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

F1® The Movie is really good with some of the best cinematography I’ve ever seen; and the way the movie looks isn’t the only thing to rave about, there’s also great characters and terrific performances.

The storyline follows Sunny Haze (Brad Pitt), a veteran driver who suffered an injury early in his career, which halted his chances of going professional. Now, given the opportunity to perform on the biggest stage, he mentors the newest prodigy.

I really love the opening scene because it immediately sets the tone for the film and its overall theme. You can basically anticipate the whole film from the opening scene, which is foreshadowing.

The cinematography is outstanding; I love all the different shots, especially the point of view from inside the driver’s seat which lets you experience what it’s like to be in a Formula 1 race car.

 

I enjoyed all the characters and performances of the actors. Sunny Hayes (Brad Pitt) is the heart of this film and Pitt gives a well-rounded performance. Javier Barden is a great addition to the cast as Ruben and he brings a funny tone to the movie but also a serious one where he sets the stakes for the entire story. The standout performance for me is Joshua Pierce (Damson Idris).

He makes you hate his character for a while, and then also makes you like him. I liked every moment he was on screen, but that could be biased because he is one of my favorite actors. But his character goes through a great arc throughout the film.

 

The film’s message is that without teamwork you cannot accomplish anything. Teamwork matters in car racing as you need to rely on your pit crew and other drivers to help you succeed. You can’t do it all by yourself.

I give F1® The Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on June 27, 2025.

 

On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast, defies centuries of traditional dragon-fighting practice when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Madeleine H.K. comments, “This film grabbed my attention and held it from the get go – the action and suspense of the battle scenes, the trials of flight and the intense training to be dragon slayer are all intense.” Charlotte L. adds, “I enjoyed this remake of the original movie into a live-action version, turning the animated characters into live action characters.” Emma O. adds, “How to train Your Dragon reminds us to be true to ourselves, to build friendships through discovery and that first impressions are not always what they seem.” Selene W. adds, “For those of us who already love the characters in this epic adventure, I am pleased that the live action version is faithful to the original…” Eva M. adds, “The film’s message is about empathy, courage, and challenging the ideas we are taught.” Ruhi K. wraps it up with, “How To Train Your Dragon is a rip-roaring fantasy film packed with intricate special effects, a powerful musical score, and plenty of emotion.” See their full reviews and Eva’s interview with Mason Thames below.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Madeleine H. K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love the new, live action How to Train Your Dragon. It is funny and action packed. This film made me sit on the edge of my seat while making me laugh.

How to Train Your Dragon is centered around a Viking boy named Hiccup (Mason Thames ) who wants to fit in with the others and go through training so he can help his village kill the dragons that attack them. When Hiccup is finally allowed to go through training he is just trying to survive the ordeal along with his classmates. At the same time, he is keeping his secret of the dragon, which he found and rescued in the woods, safe and hidden from the dragon slayers. This rescue includes inventing and building devices to befriend the dragon and learning to fly it.

This film grabbed my attention and held it from the get go – the action and suspense of the battle scenes, the trials of flight and the intense training to be dragon slayer are all intense.  Every character is lovable, from Hiccup, who is just the right amount of dorky and funny, to Astrid (Nico Parker), who is a total girl boss and one hundred percent ready to fight anyone that prevents her from becoming number one. The supporting characters all have endearing qualities such as Fishlegs (Julian Dennison), who knows every fact and detail about dragons and can’t wait to share it all — even if it means his hair is burnt-off; to the twins, Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn) and Ruffnut (Bronwen James), who boast more than they should and constantly bicker.  The eternal approval-seeking Snotlought (Gabriel Howell) strives for his father’s attention, as well as, winning over Astrid to numerous hilarious outcomes.

The chief Viking (Gerard Butler) portrays the protective, yet disappointed dad of Hiccup and the fierce leader of the Viking tribe. The landscapes are incredible and no detail is missed from the straw roofs of the village houses to the cove where Hiccup befriends and trains the dragon he names Toothless. The rustic, yet beautiful costumes, feature soft animal pelts, smooth leathers and detailed horned metal helmets.  The music kept my heart thumping with its sharp crescendos and beats that signal action; every note enhances the film, especially the battle scenes. The CGI in this movie is amazing — you can see each and every scale that seems to reflect the light off the dragons along with every stroke of the color of toothless iris.

How to Train Your Dragon sends a message of peace and kindness to all living creatures; we are not our history and, with a little understanding, we can make friends with the fiercest beasts. Be aware that the film has bright lights, jump scares and loud sounds that may be overwhelming to some people

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. How to Train Your Dragon releases in theaters June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14

I like this live action re-adaptation of the original How to Train Your Dragon and how it combines action and humor.

The storyline follows a Viking named Hiccup (Mason Thames) who has always felt out of place. At first he wants to join the fight against the Vikings and the dragons, until he captures one of the deadliest dragons, a Night Fury, and finds he can’t kill it. He names the dragon Toothless and bonds with it, realizing that he has to stop this feud against the dragons and the Vikings.

I enjoyed this remake of the original movie into a live-action version, turning the animated characters into live action characters.

They kept all the important parts of the story and only slightly changed things to accommodate the live action format. There are beautiful landscape shots – my favorite is a view from the sky watching Hiccup ride Toothless. The flying is so realistic looking. Hiccup is competing in a dragon training competition while the main plot takes place. His competitors, Astrid (Nico Parker), Ruffnut (Bronwyn James), Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn), Snotlout (Gabriel Howell) and Fishlegs (Julian Dennsion) bring humor to the film, and also provide action scenes for our enjoyment.

They look down on Hiccup and are shocked when he performs so well, in a comedic and arrogant way. The costumes are also detailed and realistic looking. The characters look like true Vikings with fur clothes, Viking helmets, and weapons strapped all over.

The film’s message is that, even when you’re looked down on by others, you can still make a huge difference in their lives.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It releases in theaters on June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Animation comes to life in this remake of How to Train Your Dragon. I loved revisiting this story. This was a favorite of mine on its initial release as an animated feature, and Director Dean DeBlois crafts a renewed magical experience in this live action version.  Filled with visual imagery and character reenactment, this film refreshes the world of dragons for everyone.

How to Train Your Dragon is set on the mythical isle of Berk. For ages, this village of Vikings has battled dragons to sustain life. When a young man, Hiccup (Mason Thames) struggles to contribute to this life of dragon slaying, he discovers his own purpose and talents through an unexpected bond with a dragon named Toothless. The friendship forges a path to a new way of life for the entire community.

I love how this film keeps the original storyline and brings the animated characters to life through amazing videography and costume design. The comic characters of Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyon) and Snotlout (Gabriel Howell) are so well cast; it’s like they emerged from the animated film in human form. The imagery when Toothless flies over mountains and dramatically plummets and twirls through the air made me feel as if I was riding the dragon myself. The heartfelt bonding moments between Toothless and Hiccup are created through imagery and sound – we hear the growls and groans of Toothless as he expresses himself. The groans and facial expression show us how trust and friendship forms. Sound creates amazing moments throughout the film.

One can hear the wisp of the dragon tail opening to the flap of a dragon wing in flight. Sound creates a space that suspends reality in this mystical space.

Actor Mason Thames, who plays Hiccup, gets a special shout out for interacting with Toothless, the mythical creature who isn’t there. That’s acting!

How to train Your Dragon reminds us to be true to ourselves, to build friendships through discovery and that first impressions are not always what they seem. Parents should be aware there are motion sensory segments, flashes, and explosive noises.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus parents. How to Train Your Dragon releases in theatres June 13, 2025.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Selene W., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

How to Train Your Dragon is the must-see family film of this summer as it not only enchants but SOARS across the big screen!  For those of us who already love the characters in this epic adventure, I am pleased that the live action version is faithful to the original and does not try to re-imagine this world or story.  Not only will this film thrill existing fans but it is a wondrous introduction to a brand new family audience who will want to explore the isle of Berk again and again.

How to Train Your Dragon is a story about a young Viking named Hiccup (Mason Thames) who lives on an island but doesn’t fit the ideals of his Viking village.  He is the son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler) and he desperately wants his father’s attention and approval as well as inclusion among his peers in village society.

Berk has been in a war of survival against the dragons for centuries; and Hiccup defies tradition when, after injuring a dragon, he chooses not to kill it, but rather to heal the terrifying Night Fury dragon he names Toothless.  Their developing friendship and undeniable bond highlights their strength when they work together.   Through their teamwork, Hiccup and Toothless are able to forge a strengthened alliance and future for the Vikings and dragons.

The isle of Berk and the cast of characters richly come to life under the guidance of Dean DeBlois who is the writer, director and an executive producer of this film.  The immersive quality and visual effects in this film are as important as any of the characters.  The cast is notably talented and the story has many delightful characters and humorous situations.  In particular, Gerard Butler, who reprises his voice role from the animated film and really embodies the Viking village culture — I enjoyed his performance immensely.

My favorite character, Astrid (Nico Parker), is fierce, ambitious, and loyal and brings a new dimension to this important role. I have to mention the great performance of the village blacksmith, Gobber (Nick Frost), who is Hiccup’s mentor as he brings such humor, insight and compassion to his role.  Cinematographer Bill Pope brings this amazing world to life along with fantastic costume design, production design, sound, animation and, of course, the visual and special effects throughout the film.  I am thrilled that composer John Powell also reprised his role in creating the soundtrack for this live action adventure of How to Train Your Dragon. The film has an impressive website https://www.welcometoberk.com  that offers an amazing way to explore the isle of Berk and experience the immersive visuals.

The film’s message is that you shouldn’t pretend to be someone that you’re not.  Hiccup makes his journey of self-discovery through his bond with Toothless and together they come to learn that friendship can overcome many obstacles.  They both defy the expectations of their social norms and learn to challenge and change those norms together.  United they both accomplish things that would have been impossible alone.  Be aware that younger children might be frightened by some of the scenes.

I rate How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters June 13, 2025. Definitely don’t miss the opportunity to experience this epic adventure on the big screen.

How to Train Your Dragon
By Eva M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I absolutely love How to Train Your Dragon! It is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that drew me in from the start. This live-action remake takes the heart of the original story and builds on it with strong performances, breathtaking visuals, and a moving musical score. I especially love the bond between Hiccup and Toothless and how it shows the beauty of friendship and trust.

The story takes place in Berk, a Viking village where dragons are seen as dangerous enemies. Hiccup (Mason Thames), the chief’s son, is more thoughtful and inventive than the other Viking teens. When he injures a Night Fury dragon and decides to set it free instead of killing it, everything changes. He secretly builds a friendship with the dragon that he names Toothless, and soon begins to question everything his people believe about dragons.

What stands out most in this film is how real and emotional it feels. Mason Thames gives a heartfelt performance as Hiccup, capturing his awkwardness, intelligence, and bravery.

Toothless is brought to life through amazing CGI and his expressions, movements, and personality make him feel like a real creature that I could easily empathize with. The connection between Hiccup and Toothless is powerful, and I felt no gap between the real people and the CGI world. Gerard Butler returns as Stoick, Hiccup’s father, and brings extra strength to the character. I could clearly see his emotions deepen and mature as the story progressed. Nico Parker plays Astrid with confidence and charms, making her feel like more than just a secondary character. The flying scenes are absolutely breathtaking, especially when paired with John Powell’s sweeping musical score. The visuals — shot in Northern Ireland — add to the epic, adventurous feeling of the story. One of my favorite scenes is Hiccup and Toothless’s first flight together. It’s magical, filled with wonder, and shows just how much they trust each other.

The film’s message is about empathy, courage, and challenging the ideas we are taught. It reminds us that, just because something has always been done a certain way, doesn’t that mean it’s right. The film promotes positive behavior and strong values without feeling overly intentional. There is some action and fighting, but nothing is too intense or inappropriate for kids.

I give How to Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on June 13, 2025. This is one movie you won’t want to miss!

How To Train Your Dragon
By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

How To Train Your Dragon is a rip-roaring fantasy film packed with intricate special effects, a powerful musical score, and plenty of emotion. Twice as thrilling as its animated predecessor, this movie is definitely worth the wait – it had me holding my breath and marveling at the breathtaking sets and scenery.

The film follows Hiccup (Mason Thames), a young Viking eager to prove himself as a dragon fighter. In the midst of a brutal clash between the people of Berk and the dragons, Hiccup receives the chance of a lifetime – capturing a highly-coveted Night Fury named Toothless. But everything changes when he decides to free the dragon. Hiccup soon finds himself deeply conflicted, forced to choose between staying loyal to his family and saving his new friend.

Among the most commendable components of this film are the sets. They are beautifully constructed and bring immense artistic value to the film.

For the most part, the set designers have stayed true to the original animated film, and I adored seeing the beloved town of Berk come to life. The cinematography, which involves quite a bit of motion, comes together with the already-magnificent scenery of Ireland and a moving musical score to produce a masterpiece of fantasy cinema. The precision of the casting by Lucy Bevan is also worth mentioning. Most of the actors, such as Mason Thames, Harry Trevaldwyn and Gabriel Howell, bear a striking resemblance to the animated characters they portray. Additionally, Bevan has cast actors who look almost exactly like older versions of the leads to play their parents. Especially notable are the parents of Astrid (Nico Parker) and Snotlout (Gabriel Howell). All the actors in the film flawlessly exhibit complex emotions and seem almost perfect for their roles, reflecting great casting.

Mason Thames’s acting is phenomenal as Hiccup who is an unusually multi-layered character for a children’s film, struggling with the death of his mother, the desire to please a girl who dislikes him, and his wish to impress his father which conflicts with what he believes is the right thing to do.

I appreciate Thames’s grace in acknowledging all aspects of his character and his ability to display Hiccup’s growth throughout the film.

How To Train Your Dragon is a reminder that we aren’t defined by what other people think of us. Your destiny belongs to you and can’t be dictated by anyone else. Hiccup’s journey demonstrates the importance of following your instincts, doing the right thing and staying true to what you believe. Following your moral compass, even when it could lead to personal loss, like Hiccup does by saving Toothless, will lead you right where you need to be.

I give How To Train Your Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The movie comes to theaters on June 13, 2025.