The mission-driven series for kids and families is inspired by the work of world-renowned ethologist and conservationist, Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a United Nations Messenger of Peace, who also makes a special appearance in the upcoming season. Ava Louise Murchison (“Reacher”) stars as Jane Garcia, a nine-year-old budding environmentalist on a quest to save endangered animals. Using her powerful imagination, Jane takes her best friends David, played by Mason Blomberg, and Greybeard the chimpanzee on epic adventures to help protect wild animals all around the world because, according to her idol Dr. Jane Goodall: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, can they be saved.”
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “I love the creativity of the TV series, Jane. It teaches kids about the importance of protecting our environment and puts a new twist on answering the question, “How are we going to save them?” Each episode features an animal and explains why it is important to the Earth.” See her full review below.
Jane: Season 3
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
I love the creativity of the TV series, Jane. It teaches kids about the importance of protecting our environment and puts a new twist on answering the question, “How are we going to save them?” Each episode features an animal and explains why it is important to the Earth.
This show is about a girl named Jane (Ava Louise Murchison), who is passionate about saving endangered species and the environment. Her idol is famed animal rights activist, Jane Goodall, who helped ignite her passion for animals through a news broadcast.
Jane loves that she shares the same name with Ms. Goodall, and she even names her stuffed chimpanzee, Greybeard, after one of the chimpanzees that Goodall observed in the wild. She works side-by-side with her best friend and neighbor, David (Mason Blomberg), to determine the best way to learn more about each episode’s featured creature. Jane believes that knowledge is important, because if you do not know about an animal, how can you help them? Each episode takes the viewer through a colorful and imaginative journey to save each animal and the planet.
Jane: Season 3 was so much fun to watch. The characters’ use of their imagination is impressive. I love how no place was off-limits for creativity. Jane and David use a shopping cart and a shopping basket during a grocery store visit to represent cages. In their minds, they are working together to tag a shark in the ocean for research. They even play pretend in the principal’s office, when they got into trouble for protecting a beehive. The principal leaves, and they immediately jump into their make-believe bee mobile to go “see” how they can solve the problem of the declining bee population.
The computer generated animals are entertaining to watch. Jane and David interact with them as if they are real. Jane never has a dull moment, and the viewer is consistently learning new things every second of the show.
The show’s message is that people must speak out for those that can’t speak for themselves. Animals are becoming endangered and / or extinct, because no one is taking care of them. It is important to learn about all of the Earth’s creatures, otherwise, the results will be devastating. This show is very kid friendly and parents can feel comfortable letting their children watch this show.
Jane: Season 3 gets5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Season three premieres globally on Friday, April 18 on Apple TV+.
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Explores the work of scientists and bioengineers who are behind groundbreaking medical innovations, such as CAR T-cell immunotherapy and the inner workings of the human body for treating blood cancers like leukemia.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic IvyJoy C. comments, “It’s difficult for me to express how much I enjoyed this film. It is very moving. I feel the impact on my heart, my brain, and my humanity. It is an experience like no other film I have ever seen. While not too technical, it is educational, informative, and heartwarming…This film touched my heart in a way that no other has. It put me through waves of emotions – even making me cry at some points. This title is often held loosely and, in my opinion, this is the best movie of the year. ” See her full review below.
Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels
By IvyJoy C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 12
It’s difficult for me to express how much I enjoyed Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels. It is very moving. I feel the impact on my heart, my brain, and my humanity. It is an experience like no other film I have ever seen. While not too technical, it is educational, informative, and heartwarming.
This film shares three amazing stories about the indomitable spirit of human nature. We are introduced to three people who, with science, technology, love, and strength, have overcome what was previously considered impossible odds.
We are introduced to a nurse who travels the world with a heart given to him through scientific technology. He uses his heart, metaphorically and literally, to climb mountains and help the blind see. Next, we meet a man, his wife, and his young son who, after losing his leg, finds the strength to continue to build a community and not give up. Last, we meet a young woman who, as a child, benefited from immunotherapy technology that allowed her to live cancer free, going against the usual path of remission.
This film touched my heart in a way that no other has. It put me through waves of emotions – even making me cry at some points. This title is often held loosely and, in my opinion, this is the best movie of the year. Each story warmed my heart more than the next. It truly made me see how all the scientific advancements that humanity has made over the years have impacted our health care.
Produced by MacGillivray Freeman Films, known for their extraordinary documentaries, Superhuman body: World of Medical Marvels is superbly made and one of the most inspiring I have ever watched; it truly encourages you to enter the vast world of science. My favorite part of this film is learning about a girl who is diagnosed with leukemia, is cured by the invention of T-cell immunotherapy and able to continue her life.
The film’s lesson is that, with the power of science, anything is possible. It also reminds us that the scientific world grows with each passing moment, so no matter how you’re held back, there’s always a way in science to move you forward.
I give Superhuman Body: World Of Medical Marvels 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is available at the California Science Center and other select theaters now.
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Charlie Heller is a brilliant CIA decoder whose world comes crashing down when his wife dies in a London terrorist attack. When his supervisors refuse to take action, his intelligence becomes the ultimate weapon as he embarks on a dangerous trek across the globe to track down those responsible.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Juliana S. comments, “The Amateur is such a captivating film! Through storylines and characters the movie shows how one should live in the moment and appreciate everything that they have… The film’s message is that love makes people do crazy things, and one should never take something for granted.” See her full review below.
The Amateur
By Juliana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
The Amateur is such a captivating film! Through storylines and characters the movie shows how one should live in the moment and appreciate everything that they have.
The story revolves around a young man, Charlie (Rami Malek), who is a hardworking and dedicated CIA agent. After he learns about a destructive terrorist attack in London in which his wife, Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan), is unfortunately killed, he is determined to take immediate, harsh action. However, when the CIA refuses to comply with his requests, Charlie decides to take matters into his own hands. The film follows his difficult journey as he tracks down those who are connected to this wife’s death, diving into the complicated emotional struggles that come with seeking revenge.
One actress who left me wanting to know more about her was Caitríona Balfe, who plays Inquiline, a sharp and humble spy. Balfe not only knows how to play her character, but she truly embodies the very essence of who Inquiline is. She uses her eyes to convey emotions that words could never fully express, from moments of harshness to soft tenderness. Caitríona Balfe’s emotional blue eyes are captivating, pulling the audience deeper and deeper into the story with every glance. Another actor who made me feel as though this is a true story is Rami Malek. Malek plays the determined, quick-witted Charlie Heller with a feeling of authenticity. As an award-winning actor, he shows just how deeply he can live through his character.
Rami Malek uses his body language wonderfully to us through the emotional plot. When Charlie is scared but unable to vocalize it, his hands fidget or shake uncontrollably. In contrast, when he is fearless, his posture and movements become more powerful, and his steps more deliberate, showing a wide range of emotional transformations that can resonate deeply with any one person in the audience.
The film’s message is that love makes people do crazy things, and one should never take something for granted. For me, this film was very successful in motivating me to appreciate the small things in life and live in the moment.
I give The Amateur 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Amateur releases in theaters on April 11, 2025.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip follows 11-year-old Alexander and his family as they embark on a dream Spring Break vacation to Mexico City only to have all their plans go terribly wrong when they discover a cursed idol. The family is put to the test until they resolve to return the idol to its rightful home.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is an exciting roller coaster ride of life’s ups and downs. It has everything from exploding ice cream trucks to even an evil spirit. I love how the family in this story never gives up; even if things get terrible, horrible, no good, and very bad.” Alma K. adds, “The book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day was released in 1972 and in 2014, was adapted into a film, starring Jennifer Garner and Dylan Minette. Now, 11 years later, this sequel is being released and unfortunately, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip doesn’t quite have the magic that made us love the original so much.” See their full reviews below.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is an exciting roller coaster ride of life’s ups and downs. It has everything from exploding ice cream trucks to even an evil spirit. I love how the family in this story never gives up; even if things get terrible, horrible, no good, and very bad.
This movie tells about the disastrous vacation of a Mexican American family that has lost touch with their roots. Alexander (Thom Nemer) is a very unlucky 11-year old who is terrified to learn that his heritage involves a cursed idol. He becomes determined to turn his bad luck around by returning the idol to its rightful home. Unfortunately, this means taking an eventful road trip to Mexico City with his family that will leave a lasting impression on not only Alexander’s family, but everyone they encounter.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is full of belly laughs. I especially love how the family struggles to hold onto a vehicle. They start their trip with a fancy, high end RV and conclude their trip stranded and hanging on by a thread. It is also clever how the movie adds tiny comedic moments to every scene.
One instance of this is when the family has to change clothes due to a very stinky chance meeting with a skunk. It is entertaining to try to read the T-shirts they are forced to change into. My favorite is the shirt that Grandma Lidia (Rose Portillo) has to wear which says, “Britney Spears Changed My Life.” Another memorable moment is the interaction with the shop clerk, Claudio (Harvey Guillen). His reaction to the cursed idol was priceless and cracked me up. He is so dramatic and colorful. Everything he does is amusing, from putting on gloves to touch the idol to purifying the negative energy with sage once the idol leaves. He really adds some flare to the show.
The film’s message is that if bad luck is all you look for, then you’ll definitely find it – a positive mindset is everything. It also shows the importance of appreciating your heritage. This show is family friendly, but be aware there are some dangerous stunts and some bad language.
I give Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It began streaming on Disney+ on Friday, March 28, 2025.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip
By Alma K, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15
The book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day was released in 1972 and in 2014, it was adapted into a film, starring Jennifer Garner and Dylan Minette. Now, 11 years later, this sequel is being released and unfortunately, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip doesn’t quite have the magic that made us love the original so much.
Misfortune follows Alexander (Thom Nemer) wherever he goes – he was just born unlucky. When his mother Val (Eva Longoria), a magazine travel writer, gets a new assignment — driving a state-of-the-art RV to Mexico — and turns it into a family road trip, Alexander is absolutely convinced something will go wrong. The way he sees it, if he’s going, how could something not? The night before the family is set to leave, Alexander finds an old idol in the attic that belonged to his great great grandfather. Alexander’s grandfather Gil (Cheech Marin) tells the whole family the story of how the idol originally gave good luck but when it wasn’t returned, that luck turned rotten. Alexander decides to take the idol along with them because perhaps it is what is causing the bad luck of the family instead of him and they could return the idol to Mexico.
I love seeing how Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day evolved to a whole series. I grew up with the original book and I watched the 2014 movie when I was younger and I was very excited to see this sequel. I also really like that they made the family Latinx this time. It gives the story a fresh face and lets viewers learn about other cultures, in this case the Garcia family is also Mexican. A huge part of the movie is the family connecting to their roots and even the actors have commented on how the film affected them in that way. On the other hand, one of the problems with the film is that it doesn’t directly remind you of the book it’s based on. Fans of the book know that Alexander’s whole deal is that he was born unlucky and that his misfortunes, more often than not, bleed over to his family. The film doesn’t address this and assumes audiences either know it or leaves it for them to figure it out. One of the first depictions of “bad luck” in the film is when Alexander’s sister Mia (Paulina Chavez) backs into a fire hydrant while scrolling on her phone with Alexander in the passenger seat. Both Mia and Alexander blame Alexander and his luck, although it seems unrealistic to blame this incident on Alexander’s bad luck. A family road trip where just about everything goes wrong is not a new concept. Less than ten minutes in, I was reminded of the film, RV. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is predictable and there’s nothing unique about it. At the same time, it is a fun watch and, while the comedy falls flat here and there, it is a funny film.
The film’s message is about luck. The movie naturally made me think about the nature of luck. There are people that believe in karma; people that believe in fate and destiny; people that believe luck is complete chance…and so on.
I give Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12 plus families. It releases exclusively on Disney+ on March 28, 2025.
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Although Tiger is far too young to become a Travelguard, he idolizes the Travelguard and doesn’t stop trying anything and everything to become one. After he accidentally foils the plans of Black Bones and the infamous Dark Fury gang, Tiger is hired to deliver a gift that would have him cross through several dangerous towns, embarking on an epic journey.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eli C. comments, “I very much enjoyed the animated film, Run, Tiger Run! This film has great graphics and amazing storytelling that kept me at the edge of my seat. Plus, the voice acting is amazing and adds much depth to the well-animated characters. I super love movies that have me holding my belly, laughing, and this movie definitely did that.” Ruhi K. adds, “Run Tiger Run! is a riveting animated film packed with action! I enjoyed how it is brought to life by lovable characters and a soundtrack that fits the fast-paced chase scenes so well… This film reminded me that age doesn’t define a person’s ability — it’s up to you and how hard you work to reach your goals.” Zoey F. wraps it up with, “I enjoyed watching Run Tiger Run because it has a fun plot and unique animation. I especially found the sound effects quite impressive.” See their full reviews below.
Run Tiger Run!
By Eli C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 9
I very much enjoyed the animated film, Run Tiger Run! This film has great graphics and amazing storytelling that kept me at the edge of my seat. Plus, the voice acting is amazing and adds much depth to the well-animated characters. I super love movies that have me holding my belly, laughing, and this movie definitely did that.
This film is set in ancient China and follows a boy named Tiger (Hayley Nelson) who works to follow in his parents’ footsteps as a certified travel guard.
After a botched delivery and foiling the plans of the evil Black Bones (Cao Pei) and his Dark Fury Gang, Tiger is almost fired by his manager when a lucky last chance at redemption arises for him. He departs with a small team, including an unlikely ally and a comical duo. Tiger must use his clever antics and speedy personality to overcome the many challenges and foes through his journey with the help of his Samurai idol, Master Yang (Joseph).
Props to the art department for making this movie a great production. The sunlight is very realistic and the background in each scene is so fleshed out, which is a testament to the detail and effort of these artists. The film was originally created in China – the voice actors really succeed in capturing how the characters sound. Even though I love this movie, I will say that the pacing of the plot is a bit nonlinear and confusing. But for the most part, the storyline is well thought out and the characters are very enjoyable. My favorite part is when Tiger faces the infamous Lord Black, only to find that he is nothing but a fraud.
This film really teaches us that sometimes things aren’t as they seem. It also reminds us to find that part in our heart to forgive people and let go of the past. It’s important to know that, at the end of the day, we are all human and we’re all doing our best. Please note that there is a little bit of blood and substance use, but otherwise this film is kid and family-friendly.
I rate Run Tiger Run! 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. You can find it on digital platforms beginning April 1, 2025.
Run Tiger Run!
By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16
Run Tiger Run! is a riveting animated film packed with action! I enjoyed how it is brought to life by lovable characters and a soundtrack that fits the fast-paced chase scenes so well.
The storyline follows 11-year-old Tiger (Hayley Nelson), who wants nothing more than to become a “travel guard” and make his missing parents proud. When Tiger accidentally destroys the infamous Dark Fury gang leader Black Bone’s (Tom Laflin) master plan, he is given the opportunity to earn his travel guard badge if he can make a special delivery. Tiger embarks on his journey with the help of an unlikely partner, the town drunk, who also happens to be the great Master Yang (Todd Kuhns).
Right from the start, I was drawn in by the animation which is bright, colorful and nearly seamless despite the high speeds of the action scenes that the plot demands. The distinct visual styles of the characters immediately caught my eye. Beyond their individual appearances, each character is drawn in a unique and engaging style that perfectly reflects their personality. For example, Tiger’s character is drawn as small and round, with a large head and round eyes; it has no shadow on his form. Master Yang, on the other hand, is drawn with sharp angles, longer lines and a darker and cooler color palette. Black Bone is drawn as a bendy and stringy character with bug-like eyes and awkwardly placed features, suggesting that perhaps he is a villain, but it turns out that he is no real threat. The character designs are so varied that it made me wonder if they were drawn by different artists. Besides their appearances, the characters are easy to fall in love with. Tiger’s determination and focus, despite his young age and inexperience, give him a certain quality of innocence and endearment, making him twice as much fun to root for. I enjoyed watching him defy the expectations of his manager and show everyone what he can do.
This film reminded me that age doesn’t define a person’s ability — it’s up to you and how hard you work to reach your goals. With patience, perseverance and a little luck, you can go places and turn your dreams into reality. It also reminded me to be grateful for my supporters. We all need to surround ourselves with people who will cheer us on and celebrate our success, just like Tiger and Master Yang do for each other.
I give Run Tiger, Run! 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The movie will be available on streaming channels starting April 1, 2025.
Run Tiger Run
Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12
I enjoyed watching Run Tiger Run because it has a fun plot and unique animation. I especially found the sound effects quite impressive. Aside from a few redundantly used sounds, Run Tiger Run is an amazing movie.
The plot follows clumsy, 11-year-old Tiger (Hayley Nelson) as he follows his dreams of being a travelguard, the fearless warriors that protect and deliver packages. Tiger’s skill, however, doesn’t quite amount to that of the glorious tales he tells of brave travelguards which he has heard from the townspeople and Manager Da (Bradley Gareth). But when Tiger accidently meddles with The Dark Fury, a dangerous gang run by the undefeated Lord Black (Alex Ross), he is forced to journey across the most dangerous terrain to deliver an important package. With the help of recently retired Headmaster Yang (Todd Kuhns), Tiger delivers the package with hopes of earning his travelguard badge and maybe, just maybe, his parents returning.
The most memorable part of Run Tiger Run are the excellent sound effects, especially the fight scenes, like when Tiger courageously battles Lord Black. Footsteps, blade swings, fire crackling, and similar are beautifully executed. However, some of the vocal effects are redundant and overused. Due to this being an action-packed film, there are many grunting and yelling sound effects, but they are used so much and at such high volume that, at times, they take away from the scene itself. Other than this, the voice overs are commendable. Something else I enjoyed is the humor – there are small bits included to keep the audience immersed and interested. For example, when The Dark Fury first runs into Tiger and strikes their intimidation poses, a guard is shown struggling to balance.
Run Tiger Run has many different themes. A main theme is coping with grief and loss. Tiger’s parents promised to return before they left to go on a mission and, sadly, never do. Tiger is blinded by the idea that they will return. The viewers see Tiger embarking on a journey of his own, accepting that loss. There are many mentions of alcohol addictions and violence (nothing too graphic).
I give Run Tiger Run 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Run Tiger Run is available on multiple streaming platforms beginning April 1, 2025.
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