KIDS FIRST! News

In Depression-era London, a now-grown Jane and Michael Banks, along with Michael’s three children, are visited by the enigmatic Mary Poppins following a personal loss. Through her unique magical skills, and with the aid of her friend Jack, she helps the family rediscover the joy and wonder missing in their lives. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Abigail Zoe L. comments, “What I really love about this film is that it has a great story, acting, singing, dancing and music. I particularly loved the live action mixed with vibrant colorful animation.” Benjamin P. adds, “Mary Poppins Returns is a charming musical filled to the brim with imagination and whimsy. It is quite entertaining and Emily Blunt is very good as the magical, manners-focused nanny.” Kimbirly O., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror wraps it up with, “The costumes are alive with color. The cinematography is outstanding and depicts details to marvel in when you see the film the second or third time! The acting is superb and there are some surprises, too! Adults will be happy to see appearances by two old favorites. Suspend belief and see Mary Poppins Returns! It is practically perfect in every way!”

Mary Poppins Returns
By Abigail Zoe L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

The movie, Mary Poppins Returns is a beautiful classic movie. I totally enjoyed it and can’t wait to watch it again. However, it is different from what I thought it would be. I thought I was going to see a remake of the original Mary Poppins, you know, the one made famous by the incredible Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. However, Mary Poppins Returns is a sequel.

The story takes place 25 years into the future of the Banks’ family and the brother and sister are all grown up now. Mr. Banks has recently lost his wife and is devastated. The family is losing their home because they are behind on payments. Fortunately, for the Banks’ family, Mary Poppins (played by the multi-talented Emily Blunt) returns to help the family.

What I really love about this film is that it has a great story, acting, singing, dancing and music. I particularly loved the live action mixed with vibrant colorful animation. There are also golden nuggets of lessons to be learned in life, which I’ll share shortly.

One of my favorite parts in the movie is when Mary Poppins makes her grand entrance gliding down from high in the sky with her umbrella. Another awesome scene is when Jack (played the brilliantly talented Lin-Manuel Miranda) uses a ladder to climb the multi-high clock tower. Another really cool scene is when all the characters go down a tub drain and enter a whole new world where they swim and sing. 

I love the singing voices of Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is great to see a cameo appearance by the amazing Dick Van Dyke (as Mr. Dawes Jr.) who runs the bank. He literally lit up the film when he appears and dances on a desk. Angela Lansbury’s cameo as the Balloon Lady was also just perfect. She has one of those voices when you hear one word you know it’s her.  

The messages of Mary Poppins Returns are important for all of us to remember – never lose hope, try to look at the brighter side of things and don’t forget what it is to be or have the heart of a child. I recommend this for ages 5 to 18 and also for adults. This film comes to theatres December 19, 2018 and I think you will love it, too. I joyfully give Mary Poppins Returns 5 out of 5 stars!

Mary Poppins Returns
By Benjamin Price, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Mary Poppins Returns is a charming musical filled to the brim with imagination and whimsy. It is quite entertaining and Emily Blunt is very good as the magical, manners-focused nanny.

The storyline follows the title character as she returns to the Banks’ family home, decades later. Siblings Michael and Jane Banks are grown up. Michael, with kids of his own and mourning the loss of his wife, is about to lose the home that they have lived in since they were children. Poppins descends from the London sky, ready to help the Banks’ family with their plight and teach Michael’s kids to use their imaginations and improve their manners. The bank has given Michael a few days to pay off his house, setting off a countdown for Poppins, the Banks and a lamplighter named Jack to save the home.

The story is interesting. Michael Banks has hit rock bottom. His wife has tragically passed away and he’s about to lose the home he has lived in since childhood. The only thing that brings him joy is the comfort and company of his family. It’s a sad place to start, but it’s a great scenario for Mary Poppins to come to work her magic. The idea of losing your home is pretty realistic and the contrast with such a fantastical protagonist and situation, provides an aspect that I quite enjoyed.

Emily Blunt is very good as Mary Poppins. She puts her own twist on the character, yet you can still trace it back to the earlier onscreen depiction of Poppins. Blunt gives the character a sharper, comedic edge. Her Poppins is much more witty and sarcastic, but still gives a sense of compassion and care for those around her. Blunt really dives into the role and cements her portrayal in a charismatic way. She steals the show in nearly every scene.

I recommend Mary Poppins Returns for ages 5 to 18, due to some dark themes. Adults and fans of the original Mary Poppins will enjoy this film. I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. The film has lots of charm and it’s great to see Poppins sail back onto the screen once again.

Mary Poppins Returns
By Kimbirly O., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

The magic of Disney reappears in Mary Poppins Returns, directed and produced by Rob Marshall! Do you remember when Mary Poppins flew in to save the day for Michael and Jane Banks in Disney’s Mary Poppins debut 1964? It was a magical time as she popped in and out. Today, we relive the magic as Mary Poppins (Emily Blunt) flies in to assist Michael Banks (Ben Whishaw) and his housekeeper, Ellen (Julie Walters), bring order to his home and care for his three children –  Anabel (Pixie Davies), John (Nathanael Saleh) and Georgie (Joel Dawson) at Number 17 Cherry Tree Lane, London following a terrible loss.

The story begins with a fabulous musical dancing and singing performance by Jack (Lin-Manuel Miranda), a city lamplighter and a man who has a soft spot for Jane Banks (Emily Mortimer), Michael’s Sister, for most of his life. Liveliness quickly subsides to concern as Michael Banks’ home, their childhood home, is tapped by the repo man, in the form of two bank solicitors. The timeframe is 1930s depression-era London and many are strapped, yet there is one person who relishes the misfortune of others, William Weatherall Wilkins (Colin Firth), president of the bank. You see, the bank is quite happy to collect on other’s misfortune and the Banks family is a target for this greedy man.

With Mary Poppins at the helm, joy and wonder return to the children. She takes them on many colorful adventures including a visit to see her cousin, Topsy (Meryl Streep). The adventures are full of action and I found myself lost in their magic and not wanting them to end. There are big musical numbers in their travels. The film travels the road to musical and intrigues imagination along the way.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, as well as adults. The costumes are alive with color. The cinematography is outstanding and depicts details to marvel in when you see the film the second or third time! The acting is superb and there are some surprises, too! Adults will be happy to see appearances by two old favorites. Suspend belief and see Mary Poppins Returns! It is practically perfect in every way! This film opens in theaters nationwide December 19, 2018. See it!

Images © 2017 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The true story of Hollywood’s greatest comedy double act, Laurel and Hardy, is brought to the big screen for the first time. Starring Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly as the inimitable movie icons, Stan and Ollie is the heart-warming story of what would become the pair’s triumphant farewell tour. With their golden era long behind them, the pair embark on a variety hall tour of Britain and Ireland. Despite the pressures of a hectic schedule, and with the support of their wives Lucille (Shirley Henderson) and Ida (Nina Arianda) – a formidable double act in their own right – the pair’s love of performing, as well as for each other, endures as they secure their place in the hearts of their adoring public. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “…this film offers a great introduction to Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy (affectionately nicknamed Babe), two of the most fascinating entertainers of the Golden Era of Hollywood.” See her full review below.

Stan & Ollie
By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

Stan & Ollie is a fine biopic with great performances, beautiful scenarios and a powerful story about the value of friendship.

I didn’t know much about these comedians and this film offers a great introduction to Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy (affectionately nicknamed Babe), two of the most fascinating entertainers of the Golden Era of Hollywood. I like discovering the roots of filmmaking and physical comedy. The movie shows who they are, their artistic personalities and the dynamics of their friendship.

Directed by Jon S. Baird, the story starts in 1937 when the duo is at the peak of their career. Then it quickly moves to 1953 when their career is not solid anymore and the comedians embark on a trip to Great Britain to reconnect with fans and regain fame. Even though they are famous, there are empty seats at their shows. They have recognition, but not that much money. They return to what they know and love to do – comedy. People thought they retired, but they managed to perform and work hard like they did from the beginning. I like that the film centers in this poignant part of their lives where their friendship is put to a test, while they struggle with aging and loosing popularity. They haven’t stopped dreaming and hoped to obtain the financing for a movie project.

I enjoyed their slapstick comedy and noticed how different humor was in the 30s and 50s. I appreciated how committed they were as working actors. Stan and Ollie conformed a unique duo. They shared a strong friendship and were not only business partners, but truly close friends. Their bond was special. They complemented each other in the creative process and on stage with grace and sentiment. They seemed to be in constant collaboration. The film also shows their dynamics outside the stage and with their wives, who were kind of rivals, but they supported each other at the same time. Their love for comedy and performing arts was genuine. They really lived for that. But they didn’t always have happy moments. We see them disagree and even break each others’ hearts. Despite their different point of views about business, they shared a true love for performing and entertaining.

My favorite scene is the iconic gag where they keep on going in circles to find each other when they are next to each other all the time. I like all the jokes and I really enjoyed them. 

The most remarkable aspect of this film are the performances by John C. Reilly (Ollie) and Steve Coogan (Stan). Not only for their impeccable physical resemblance, helped by some awesome make up, but for their interpretations and rapport, which reflect the spirit of the duo. You can feel the actors’ admiration for the comedic duo.

The message of the film is that no matter how much you disagree and even fight with your friends, true feelings always endure and true friendship is endless.

I give Stan & Ollie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, as well as adults. Is a great movie for those who are familiar with early Hollywood films and for us who want to discover and connect with the origins of cinema.

I give Stan & Ollie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, as well as adults. Is a great movie for those who are familiar with early Hollywood films and for us who want to discover and connect with the origins of cinema.

Stan & Ollie
By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Stan & Ollie is a superb bio-pic about the famous comedy duo. Spot-on casting and great direction make for a very informative and entertaining romp. Anyone looking for an outstanding bio-pic or a wonderful movie will want to watch this.

The movie follows the famous Laurel & Hardy, as they set out to tour Britain in 1953. However, years have passed since their heyday of being Hollywood comedy kings, and they face an uncertain challenge. They find success obtaining their long-lost charm and even reconnect with their most ardent fans. The tour eventually finds success, until Stan (John C. Reilly) and Ollie (Steve Coogan) can’t quite shake their disagreements and Ollie’s health starts failing. They are aware that this may very well be their swan song, but amid that they can rediscover just how much their brotherly bond means.

The titular duo, Stan (John C. Reilly) and Ollie (Steve Coogan), remain my favorite characters and bring great heart. The two share great chemistry and bring out the best with their impeccable theater performances. Same with their wives, Lucille Hardy (Shirley Henderson) and Ida Laurel (Nina Arianda), who equally sell their disagreements, but with sisterly love. Shirley, in particular, shines with emotionally charged reactions to her husband’s health. Danny Huston, as Hal Roach, embodies the famous producer, and gives us a good look behind the scenes in Laurel & Hardy. His frustrations with the group is also well presented and those provide a most realistic look at the bitter friendship the three had.

Jon S. Baird aptly directs the movie, with a great eye for the duo’s on-stage performances. The shifting timeline proves slightly confusing at times, but such moments are few and far between.  My favorite scene is the final concluding scene, that proves to be an epic ending to the tour and is very touching. It showcases the true power of friendship and the importance of the duo on comedy history. It is a perfect ending to this poetic tale.

The message of this film is that a friendship can always outweigh any challenges and even the test of time.  I give this film 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18, because of brief language and smoking. The movie had a limited release in theaters on December 28, 2018 and is rolling out across the country, so check your local listings.

Images © SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT INC.

From Warner Bros. Pictures and director James Wan comes an action-packed adventure that spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, “Aquaman,” starring Jason Momoa in the title role. The film reveals the origin story of half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry and takes him on the journey of his lifetime–one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be… a king. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Siaki S. comments, “I really like this film because the message is so powerful. It’s about training to be the best you can be. Then, when you are ready, your task is to beat anything that’s in your way, with a humble heart because good always wins.” Kimbirly O., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror adds, “As widely reported, there is a lot of CGI, and violent CGI. The War Of The Seas is scary at times. Conversely, the stunts and special effects are detailed and outstanding. The visuals are beautiful. The costumes are alive with color. Moms will see themselves in the reality of Motherhood self-sacrifice in Queen Atlanna.” See their full reviews below.

Aquaman
By Siaki Sii, KIDS FIRST!, Film Critic, Age 15

I really like this film because the message is so powerful. It’s about training to be the best you can be. Then, when you are ready, your task is to beat anything that’s in your way, with a humble heart because good always wins. Another reason why I like it is because of the action between Arthur and King Orm. These two teach that, no matter what the situation is, violence is never the answer. I also really like the background music because the suspense really moved me and made me want to jump out of my seat with excitement and joy.

This amazing action/adventure film is about the city of Atlantis, which is now an underwater kingdom ruled by the power-hungry king Orm. With his army by his side, King Orm plans to take over the remaining oceanic people to become the King of all oceans better known as the Oceanic Master, then to rule the surface world. Standing in Orm’s way is his half-Human, half-Atlantean brother, Aquaman, known as half-breed. With help from Vulko, who is the royal counselor of the throne, Aquaman must retrieve the powerful trident of Atlan to proclaim the title as the protector of the deep blue sea.

The cast includes Arthur/Aquaman (Jason Momoa, Game Of Thrones), Atlanna (Nicole Kidman, Dead Calm), King Atlan (Graham McTavish, Outlander), Mera (Amber Heard, Never Back Down), King Orm (Patrick Wilson, Insidious), Vulko (Willem Dafoe, Spider-Man), Manta (Yahya Abdul-Manteen II, The Greatest Showman).

My favorite part of this film is when Arthur finds out that he has the power to talk to the creatures in the water, in other words echolocation. Following that, Arthur doesn’t know how to control the power that he has, which is why King Atlan puts Arthur in the hands of the royal counselor, Vulko, to learn to control his powers. From the training that Artur does with Vulko, Arthur shall use it in the future.

Aside from that, King Orm plans to take things into his own hands and decides to conquer the seven seas to become King Of The Deep Blue Sea, also known as the Oceanic Master. After that, King Orm plans to take apart the surface world to become his treasure for good.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 11 to 18, as well as adults. Truly the whole family will love this film as it has so many funny and good reaction moments. This film also requires very good anthropomorphic qualities in various scenes. Don’t miss this amazing action/adventure film directed by James Wan, which is playing in theaters now, to find out what happens at the end.

Aquaman
By Kimbirly Orr, KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

Origin stories are always fun. Learning the back-story of a character is a wild ride, especially when discussing Aquaman. The unlikely and forbidden union of a human man and a queen from the depths of the seas resulted in a boy with surreal aquatic skills and knowledge. As the narrator of the film, Aquaman/ Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) tells the tale of his birth and youth in a lovely way – until his Mother Queen Atlanna (Nicole Kidman) is violently swept away by the troops of King Orm (Patrick Wilson), a power-hungry ruthless ruler. Now confused, Arthur is visited by a teacher named Vulko (Willem Dafoe) who teaches him the ways of his people.

As Arthur grows up, he learns he is the heir to Atlantis, an underwater kingdom. The story is told through a series of flashbacks, which teach the audience more about his origin story and how his disinterest in attaining a throne comes to be. Throughout the film, Arthur denies his birthright and refuses to fight for his rightful place as heir to a throne held by his half-brother, King Orm (Patrick Wilson). His betrothed, Princess Mera (Amber Heard) reconsiders her place in the kingdom as the battle for Atlantis ensues.

Throughout his life, Vulko has trained Arthur to educate him about the sea, and the reigning factions. As he is a cross-species being, he must learn how to get along above and below the sea. Arthur lives a history lesson as he learns about the sea Kings and evolution of the Master of the Sea.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars and recommend this film for ages 14 to 18, as well as adults. As widely reported, there is a lot of CGI, and violent CGI. The War Of The Seas is scary at times. Conversely, the stunts and special effects are detailed and outstanding. The visuals are beautiful. The costumes are alive with color. Moms will see themselves in the reality of Motherhood self-sacrifice in Queen Atlanna. Hats off to Jason Momoa (swoon.) His over-the-top portrayal of Arthur works. He is equally funny and dedicated to the role. Suspend belief and enjoy a wet ride through lands never seen before. This film is in theaters now.

‘Twas the day before Christmas and all through the yard the Cat in the Hat and his guests partied hard. When the party was over, and the guests all departed one poor baby reindeer was left broken-hearted! Can the Cat in the Hat, Sally, Nick and the Fish help make come true little Ralph’s Christmas wish? to be with his family, in far-off Freeze-Your-Knees. Will you help see him home? Come be our guests, please! KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Damon F. comments, “I like how the animations in this movie looks exactly like the illustrations in the original book. In the movie they show tons of characters from the books celebrating Christmas in their own way with The Cat in the Hat. This teaches kids about different holiday traditions.” Denise B. adds, “This is a great addition to the other Cat In The Hat Knows A Lot About That shows. Like the others, it features Martin Short as the voice for the Cat, is colorfully animated, has very catchy music and is  just fun to watch.” See their full reviews below.

The Cat in the Hat Knows A lot about Christmas
Damon F., Age 10 KIDS FIRST!

The Cat in the Hat Knows A lot about Christmas is an animated film based on the classic book, The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss. The movie takes place on the night of Christmas Eve. This film is a Christmas special from the TV show The Cat in the Hat knows A lot about That. This is an educational show where The Cat explains nature and science by going on adventures with two kids named Sally and Nick. The Cat in the Hat Knows A lot about Christmas is about when the Cat in the Hat (Martin Short) and his friends must try to take a playful reindeer named Ralph back to “Freeze Your Knees Snowland”, for Christmas.

I like how the animations in this movie looks exactly like the illustrations in the original book. In the movie they show tons of characters from the books celebrating Christmas in their own way with The Cat in the Hat. This teaches kids about different holiday traditions. All The Cat’s animal friends each show their way of migration and use it to help The Cat bring Ralph home. This makes the movie very educational. For example, when they meet up with some dolphins the dolphins work with Ralph to bring the thingamajigger back to land. This shows how dolphins always work together to complete any task.

My favorite character in this movie is Ralph the reindeer (Annick Obonsawin) because he is very relatable and tries to always be the best at everything. There is a running joke in this film which is very funny. The joke is that every single time there is a problem, The Cat calls for Thing 1 and Thing 2 (Rob Tinkler). When they come out of the thingamajigger, they are ready to set up an entire Christmas celebration wherever they are but every time, one of the kids, Sally (Alexa Torrington) or Nick (Jacob Ewaniuk) comes up with a reason to not do it. This makes them very sad. The message of this movie is that the meaning of Christmas is being with your family and friends.

I rate this movie 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 3 to 7 because it is funny and repetitive, and the characters are familiar. It is also educational. This movie is available on DVD now.

The Cat in the Hat Knows a lot about Christmas
Reviewed by Denise A. Bloomfield

Looking for an original family fun DVD to watch with the younger kids during the Holiday Season? The Cat In The Hat Knows A Lot About Christmas is the one to watch. This is a great addition to the other Cat In The Hat Knows A Lot About That shows. Like the others, it features Martin Short as the voice for the Cat, is colorfully animated, has very catchy music and is  just fun to watch. It starts out at the Cat’s big Christmas party with all his various creature friends, from elephants to a very little mouse. We learn that a caribou is the same as a reindeer. There is a delightful story about finding Ralph the Caribou and taking him home for Christmas. I highly recommend this for children ages 3 to 8, and their parents too. I give it 5 stars out of 5 for its terrific entertainment value. Reviewed by Denise A. B., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror.

The Cat in the Hat Knows a lot about Christmas
Reviewed by Elle S.

The Cat In The Hat Knows A Lot About Christmas is filled with excitement, adventure and teamwork. The setting takes place on Christmas Eve and is based on the struggles of an inquisitive reindeer, Ralph, who needs to get home in time for Christmas. We travel through a town called Freeze Your Knees, a waterhole, and even Christmas Island where the crew faces lots of mysterious circumstances. There are creative moments of learning, laughter and problem solving. The climatic moments of this film teach us not to give up, no matter where we end up. The holiday season is most known for caring and sharing and this film focuses on that message. There are lots of surprise appearances from family members and animal friends of the Cat, Nick, and Sally. There are many moments of music the encourage you to sing along. Every character has a helpful role that contributes to the journey to save Christmas. Opportunities for education are surely part of this film. This is a great film to view with friends and family, especially during the holidays. The story has messages about being brave, working together and finding your way back home. I recommend it for ages 5 to 13 and give it 5 out of 5 stars. By Elle Stewart, KIDS FIRST! Juror

A mysterious young woman, Hester Shaw, emerges as the only one who can stop a giant, predator city on wheels devouring everything in its path. Feral, and fiercely driven by the memory of her mother, Hester joins forces with Tom Natsworthy, an outcast from London, along with Anna Fang, a dangerous outlaw with a bounty on her head. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Rohan F. comments, “The CGI in this movie is really impressive. The steampunk cities that fill the movie are thought out thoroughly. Shrike, a humanoid robot, is well designed.He looks very realistic, but with lots of sci-fi details.” See his full review below.

Mortal Engines
By Rohan F, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Mortal Engines is a visually incredible movie. Unfortunately, the story is quite hard to follow,and a lot seems to have been cut.

 The film is set in a post-apocalyptic future where civilization has been wiped out. What’s left of the human race has rebuilt cities as war vehicles designed to destroy and loot other cities. A girl named Hester Shaw tries to revenge her mother and stop London from destroying the shield wall, a wall that protects the peaceful, non-moving cities.

I dislike how fast it moves. There are lots of action scenes and some of them get a bit too fast. On the other hand, these action scenes are well planned out and have lots of moving parts. In almost all of them, the characters are fighting while the city falls apart.

The CGI in this movie is really impressive. The steampunk cities that fill the movie are thought out thoroughly. Shrike, a humanoid robot, is well designed. He looks very realistic, but with lots of sci-fi details. I specifically like how he can hold onto the ground by folding his feet down. This is a unique ability that isn’t over or under used. I enjoy Stephen Lang’s voice as Shrike. It gives an expected, eerie feeling to his character.  The makeup for Hester’s scar is great, looking realistic but not too over the top.

 The moral of Mortal Engines is that you can accomplish anything if you work as a team. This is shown when Hester refuses to work with her friends until the end, when they must work together to stop London from destroying the shield wall.

The music is often too overpowering. In several scenes, the music actually takes away from what is happening on screen. For example, in the final set it gets so loud that you can’t hear what the characters are saying.

My favorite scene is at the beginning, when they show the landscape of this post-apocalyptic future and then, quickly jump into the action with a fun chase scene. This scene is very intense and shows what most of the movie is all about.

I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 15. It opens in theaters Friday, December 14, 2018 so look for it.