KIDS FIRST! News

The wait is over! Star Wars: The Force Awakens opens this weekend and, the word is that you will NOT be disappointed! KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O. comments, “People have been waiting for a good Star Wars story ever since Episode VI came out 32 years ago. Fellow Star Wars fans, I am pleased to tell you, it has come.” The secrecy surrounding this release has been extraordinary. Even our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics who were scheduled to attend press screenings had to pledge to secrecy the time and location and weren’t allowed to even tell anyone they were going to it. You should know that the pace of this film is very fast and the action, quite intense. The original film’s iconic characters played by Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher, are back, older and even more incredible than ever. But, the new team, played by Daisy Ridley and John Boyega, definitely strike out on their own and command attention. The film is long at 135 minutes but then, so were the first ones – Episode IV (121 minutes); Episode VI (131 min.); Episode I (136 min.).  Nathaniel B. (KIDS FIRST! Film Critic) adds, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens is a wonderful film that many people will love. Today’s technology really makes the fantasy of Star Wars seem like reality.” See our youth reporters’ full reviews below.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens
By Gerry O, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

It is surprising that only 10 to 12 hours of films created the giant franchise we know as Star Wars. People have been waiting for a good Star Wars story ever since Episode 6 came out 32 years ago. Fellow Star Wars fans, I am pleased to tell you, it has come.

Everyone knows Star Wars is a sci-fi, action franchise, but this film is very unique for the fact that it goes much deeper. With Evil getting more and more powerful, there is drama and fighting between the characters, but that doesn’t stop romance from sneaking in with a little bit of comedy. Granted, I was worried it would turn into a kid’s comedy, but quite a few times I found my self thinking that not only are the jokes perfect, they are also not over used!

Alright, let’s get to the part everyone wants to read, the plot of the most hyped, but hidden film of the decade. The events start out 20 years after what took place in Episode 6, (spoiler alert for people who didn’t see episode 6).  The Empire has fallen, yes, but a new Evil has risen, known as The First Order. The rebellion needs new Jedi now more than ever, but Luke (Mark Hamill) is missing and they need to find (wait for it) a new hope!

Is the film worth the wait? Ever since almost a year ago, people have been talking about new Star Wars episode, and it is SO worth it. Famous directors have taken on some great challenges before, including Spielberg finishing Kubrick’s AI. But J.J. Abrams took on something completely out of the ball field trying to continue Star Wars. The cinematography is spectacular, the ending shot (no spoiler) is one of the greatest endings I have ever seen in a film, and the whole story itself is unexpected and very enjoyable. Although there are many aspects that are not in the original Star Wars films, I think it is actually very nice to see Star Wars not get ruined, but go through its own evolving evolution.

As for the acting, of course, the original A-Team – Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and more – are phenomenal and I think it was the perfect idea to bring these characters back for the pure enjoyment of long standing fans. However, it is really Daisy Ridley who steals the show. Her character, Rey, is so fresh and unique, full of emotion, and this character (still no spoilers, sorry) goes through so much drama in the film. It must have been a very hard role to play. Daisy gives it 110%. I predict she will be win an Oscar nomination for this role.

The special effects obviously got better since the last Star Wars film in the early 2000s, and I still want to mention how breathtaking they are. Even for 2015, with all the CGI aliens, ships and spectacular space scenes, it is quite literally “eye candy.” My only criticism of the film is that it is a bit too long. However, not one single scene is out of place or feels unneeded.

One of my favorite scenes is when we are reunited with Hollywood’s favorite space ship. Rey and Finn (John Boyega) are trying to escape The First Order. They have two options for space flight, a “piece of junk” or another space ship. Well, the space ship gets blown up and it turns out the “piece of junk” is the millennium falcon! Of course, everyone cheers, claps and whistles in the audience once the camera shows the breathtaking ship. It is not only enjoyable, and a bit funny, but the camera technique is perfect. If you want to know the rest of the story, go get your tickets and watch the film!

This film is actually pretty mature. It isn’t as kind as episodes 1, 2 and 3.  It has its violence, so I recommend it for ages ten to eighteen. And, adults who saw previous Star Wars films and appreciate them will enjoy this film as well. I give it five out of five stars, because, even if it is a little bit boring in the middle, (it is 2 hours and 10 minutes long) J.J. Abrams, the cast and crew achieved the impossible and created a new masterpiece that can be proudly added to the Star Wars franchise. I am also glad to say that, for the first time in over 20 years, Star Wars returns! You can see Star Wars: The Force Awakens in theaters starting December 18th!

Star Wars: The Force Awakens
By Nathanial B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is a wonderful film that many people will love. Today’s technology really makes the fantasy of Star Wars seem like reality. The scenery is great from the beginning to the end. The forests are vast and really fit the movie wonderfully. The beautiful stars, planets and, even the spaceships, are amazingly real looking.

The storyline It tells what happens after peace was established in the galaxy at the end of Episode 6, but now it’s more than 30 years later and there is no longer peace.

The actors lured me into believing everything is really happening. Daisy Ridley as Rey shows emotion and strength. John Boyega portrays Finn as a man who starts out being afraid but must overcome his fears. And Adam Driver is excellent playing Kylo Ren, the new bad guy who tries to live up to the evil of Darth Vader and does many foolish things in the process. Each characters enliven the new story. Also, Star Wars fans of all ages will love reconnecting with characters from the original films.

The costumes are great and fit the characters in many ways. Rey’s costume, a rugged suit for the desert planet Jakku, shows that she is resourceful and can take care of herself. The unusual and cool costumes fit in well with the previous films in the series.

Many strange creatures add the element of being on other worlds.  I really enjoyed seeing all the extra characters in each scene like pirates, gangs and a variety of aliens.  A fun new sidekick is BB-8, a feisty round astromech droid that belongs to the rebellion.

The buildings look real and at the same time like they belong in Star Wars. The props, such as blasters and space ships, are also realistic. They are grungy and look like they have seen some use. The only things I didn’t like were the Stormtrooper’s blasters and armor which looked plastic and fake.

The special effects are wonderful from lightsabers to explosions and lasers from the guns. They are a huge part in the film and bring the movie to life.

I do love this film but some parts of it are not quite the way I expected. There are not many breaks from battles and there’s so much action that it feels intense and rushed.

This film is best for ages 7 to 18 because of the intensity of the action. I give this movie 4 1/2 out of 5 stars. It will definitely awaken the Star Wars fan in everyone. Reviewed by Nathaniel B. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

Mike the Knight is a Canadian/British animated TV series created by Alexander Bar and Written by Marc Seal. It airs on Nick Jr in the US. Mike is a young boy living in medieval times who has a bright future. The son of the king and queen of Glendragon, Mike is determined to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a noble knight. The young knight-in-training is given missions to complete, which he attempts to do with the help of his two dragon friends, Sparkie and Squirt; his sister, witch-in-training Evie; and his horse, Galahad. Mike tries to be the bravest knight of all. With the help of his friends and his rallying cry, “be a knight, do it right,” Mike discovers the power of responsibility and learns to do things the right way. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan R. comments, “I like that Mike is very brave and confident. This program shows kids how to be confident in themselves and encourages them to believe you can do anything when you put your mind to it.” Morgan B. adds, “At first I thought the film was just for little boys but after watching it, I think that little girls will love it too.” See their full reviews below.

Mike the Knight: Mike’s Bravest Mission
Ryan R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I like that Mike is very brave and confident. This program shows kids how to be confident in themselves and encourages them to believe you can do anything when you put your mind to it. I like how Mike doesn’t cheat and always plays fair. That is a great lesson that Mike shows you throughout the film.

Meet Mike, voiced by Trek Buccino, a knight in training who dreams of being a brave knight like his father when he grows up. His father, the King, is a knight who is away exploring other lands. Looking up to his father, Mike wants to learn to become a knight too. However, he is still in training. With his two dragon friends, Sparkie and Squirt, his sister, Evie, who is a witch-in-training and his horse, Galahad, Mike tries to be the bravest knight of all.

When his mom and dad think he’s prepared, they put him on a quest to solve the “Knight’s Puzzle” to see if he is ready to be a knight. Mike goes along on this journey with his friend, Richard to complete his mission. Can Mike complete the quest?
My favorite characters are Mike and Evie. Evie is one of my favorites because, unfortunately for her, her magic always goes wrong and it leads to disastrous but hilarious effects. Even though her spells go wrong she keeps persisting and never gives up. Mike is another one of my favorites because he also never gives up on the idea of becoming a knight. You see his persistence throughout the entire film which is a great message for kids to see – If you want to accomplish something, never give up and keep trying.

What I didn’t like about this show is that it has very little humor. Also, this show wasn’t very  entertaining for me as an 11-year-old. But, keep in mind that this movie is perfect for little kids. I recommend it for ages 5 to 8 and give it 4 out of 5 stars. I also recommend it to people who like action, adventure, family and kids films. The DVD has some trailers of other Mike the Knight DVDs and The Doozers DVD. It also offers bonus features where you can meet the characters or do karaoke to the theme song. That’s sort of fun!

Mike The Knight: Mike’s Bravest Mission
Morgan B., KIDSFIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

Knights, wizards, kings, dragons and more will put a smile on your face! The planes make me want to jump in and take a ride. The animation is colorful and has great details. The many action adventure scenes are spot on and flawless. The animation is so detailed that it is just mind-blowing.

At first I thought the film was just for little boys but after watching it, I think that little girls will love it too. The animals and the girl wizard will definitely be some kids’ favorites. The wizard is cute and, since she is still learning, this leads to many mistakes and funny moments. The story line includes a treasure hunt and a mystery which will capture your attention. The two story lines flow together into a fun, family-friendly, animation adventure.

The movie has great relationships between father and son. You can see all the similar qualities they share, both good and bad. The voice actors are quite wonderful and the emotions between the characters really come across. The characters show what true friends really do for each other.

The characters are adorable and the voice over work matches well with the individual characters. They are all cute and quirky. My favorites are the dragons which are surprisingly kind, not your usual breed of fire breathing beasts that want to eat or barbeque you.

The villains have a beast of their own which terrifies them. I really wanted to like them because they are funny and made me laugh. However, they are not nice and think that everything is theirs.

Mike the Knight: Mikes Bravest Mission teaches us to never give up. If you try and fail maybe you should look at the problem another way and try something different. No matter what, you should always keep trying and eventually it will all work out.

This new DVD by N Circle Entertainment is perfect for kids ages 4 to 18.The colorful movie will keep little ones entertained and older kids will love the story line.

I give this movie 4.5 out of 5 Dragons.

This film is told from Igor’s perspective. We see the troubled young assistant’s dark origins, his redemptive friendship with the young medical student Viktor Von Frankenstein, and become eyewitnesses to the emergence of how Frankenstein became the man – and the legend – we know today. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Lainey A. commented, “This phenomenal live action feature film, directed by Paul McGuigan, is jaw-dropping!  I love this movie because it is an entertaining, action-packed bromance!” See her full review below.

Victor Frankenstein
By Lainey A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

This phenomenal live action feature film, directed by Paul McGuigan, is jaw-dropping!  I love this movie because it is an entertaining, action-packed bromance!

I know you’ve all probably heard of the typical Frankenstein story where a mad scientist creates a monster.  Instead of focusing only on Frankenstein and his ghastly creation, this rendition tells the story from the vantage of Doctor Frankenstein’s sidekick, Igor Strausman (Daniel Radcliffe).

Set in London in the early 1900’s, a hunchbacked clown is destined to live his life nameless and mistreated as a circus freak of nature.  The clown is hopelessly in love with Lorelei, the beautiful and kindhearted trapeze artist played by Jessica Brown Findlay.  After her horrific fall, the clown uses his extraordinary knowledge of the human body to save Loralie’s life.  Victor Frankenstein, a gifted surgeon (James McAvoy), notices his medical expertise and rescues him from the abusive circus.

The clown is later given the name of Igor Strausman.   Frankenstein helps correct Igor’s posture though a very painful and sinister process.  Later, the two become extraordinary friends and partners, combining their scientific knowledge and medical expertise to create life out of something that is already dead.

A major subplot involves Roderick Turpin (Andrew Scott), a Scotland Yard investigator who religiously opposes Doctor Frankenstein’s work.  He is willing to do anything in his power to stop Frankenstein from going against what he believes is God’s will.

My favorite scene is when Dr. Frankenstein and Igor are trying to fight off the monster they have miraculously created. This scene involves crazy special effects and will truly leave you hanging on the edge of your seat.

My favorite character, by far, is Igor.  Daniel Radcliffe plays him as very loving and compassionate.  He finds and loses himself in the complexities of his relationship with Victor.  Lorelei helps to keep Igor grounded and is there to guide him.

I give Victor Frankenstein 5 out of 5 stars because it is not only unpredictable but also has impressive performances by the main characters.  This science fiction drama is one of my favorite film versions regarding the story of Dr. Frankenstein.  This is a really cool rendition and   I recommend this movie for ages 11 to 18 because it is intense and is a little scary at times.

This movie leaves you on the edge of your seat rooting for Igor.  Victor Frankenstein is in theaters now so go check it out!

The Good Dinosaur, which opens this weekend, asks the question: What if the asteroid that forever changed life on Earth missed the planet completely and giant dinosaurs never became extinct? In this epic journey into the world of dinosaurs, an Apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend and learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan R. (age 11) comments, “I like how it touches our emotions and admit that it made me cry in some parts. I also liked the jokes because they are really funny.” Willie J. (age 16) adds, “It is some of the most beautiful animation I’ve seen with a story so familiar that its heartwarming qualities hit home.” See their full reviews below.

The Good Dinosaur
By Ryan R., KIDS First Film Critic, Age 11

I enjoyed watching this 3D, computer-animated, adventure, dramatic comedy. The Good Dinosaur is very emotional and funny, a perfect movie for the family. This movie is about what would happen if an asteroid missed the Earth and never killed the dinosaurs. In the movie you meet Arlo (Raymond Ochoa), who is a very insecure, scared dinosaur. He meets a human kid named Spot. Something happens.  Arlo chases Spot and falls into the water taking Arlo very far away from his family. Will Arlo make it back to his family or will he be lost?

I enjoyed this movie. I like how it touches our emotions and admit that it made me cry in some parts. I also liked the jokes because they are really funny. I love the action scenes that involve the water. It kept me on the edge of my seat.

My favorite character is Arlo who is very ecstatic, extremely compassionate and learns to face his fears. Arlo is very relatable because everyone has fears and people think it is silly but it isn’t. I love that he is very motivated.

The moral lesson in this movie is you can discover what you’re truly capable of if you are willing to face your fears.  Arlo proves that in this movie.

I give this film 5 out of 5 amazing stars and recommend it for kids ages 5 to 18. Adults might like this as well. I also recommend this to kids who like family, action, adventure, drama, comedies, dinosaurs and Disney movies. This movie comes out November 25 so, mark your calendar!

The Good Dinosaur
Willie Jones, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I find it strange that Pixar has released two films in the same year. Especially considering that Inside Out has been locked for every Animated Feature award since it was released. It’s almost unfair because,The Good Dinosaur is a very good film that, I’m afraid will get lost in the shadow of its all too recent predecessor. Despite such lofty competition, The Good Dinosaur, in just about any other year, would be a great candidate for Best Animated Feature. It is some of the most beautiful animation I’ve seen with a story so familiar that its heartwarming qualities hit home.

The story is something we’ve seen many times before in both animated films and live action ones. It is the story of the young boy who’s too afraid to live life and has to be shown the world to overcome his fears. Throw in some family death and comic relief friends and you could write the rest yourself. Luckily, this movie features great relational bonding between our protagonist, Arlo, and his young friend Spot. They start out not liking each other and, by the end they’re nearly inseparable. It is a relationship that develops with humor and a sweetness that brings tears to the eye.

That young boy, Spot, is portrayed as a dog actually. That is a part of an interesting dynamic with this movie. The dinosaurs are like people, and the young caveboy plays the pet. He even has a pet name. It adds to the humor of the film and it is full of humor. The opening joke, in which the film plays with the audience and threatens a meteor strike on earth, sets the tone of the film. There are other laughs and, they are laugh out loud laughs at that.

The most impressive part of the movie is the animation. I’d almost call it cinematography, that’s how beautiful it was. There is actually a point in the movie I thought J.J Abrams was directing, because there are some beautiful lens flares in there. Lens flares. That’s how intricate the animation is and how true to its environment it is. Very good direction!

Unfortunately, the familiar story limits how good this film really can be. Considering that, there isn’t anything groundbreaking. There is even an homage to The Lion King included.

For these reasons, I give this film 4 out of 5 stars. It is a fantastic family film and one I highly recommend. Kids ages 7 to 18 should really enjoy this.

From start to finish, this film does homage to Rocky Balboa in a masterful execution. Adonis Johnson is the son of the famous boxing champion Apollo Creed, who died in a boxing match in Rocky IV (1985). Adonis wasn’t born until after his father’s death and wants to follow his fathers footsteps in boxing. He seeks a mentor who is the former heavyweight boxing champion and former friend of Apollo Creed, the retired Rocky Balboa. Rocky eventually agrees to mentor Adonis and the rest is history. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Harmony M. comments, “Creed is delightfully entertaining and beautifully developed…The film starts out amazingly entertaining and engaging within the first few minutes.” See her full review below.

Creed
By Harmony M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Creed is delightfully entertaining and beautifully developed. The film brings the iconic Rocky Balboa back to life after about 40 years. The film is about the son of famous boxer Apollo Creed whose path leads him to a passionate desire to box. Upon finding out that he actually had a father who is, in fact, Apollo Creed, he goes to the only person that can help train him to live up to his father’s name. That person is Rocky Balboa.

The film starts out amazingly entertaining and engaging within the first few minutes. The movie starts by showing us the kid’s moral background which is really refreshing considering that most movies overstretch the beginning and bore their audience with “when is the movie really going to start?” That alone really establishes the film’s great quality because it develops by showing, not telling and captures the audience immediately with the background information without needing a long introduction to describe it.

Spin-off movies are quite risky. The original film has already set expectations and often, spin-offs can ruin the original film for people. Director Ryan Coogler directs this spin-off of Rocky, leaving all the fans content with the continued legacy. Ryan Coogler beautifully creates a funny, emotional and inspiring film full of amazing qualities.

The acting by Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan is brilliant and natural, making me feel connected to their characters fairly quickly. The makeup department includes special effects makeup artist Leo Corey Castellano who creates amazingly realistic boxing wounds. It is so realistic that it is the first vivid visual that comes to my mind when I think about that film.
I am personally not a fan of sports movies but I definitely recommend this film to people of all interests because the story is so touching. The story and moral messages revolve around the idea that “your legacy is more than your name.” The movie demonstrates how hard work and determination to fulfill your passion can create exactly the legacy you so desire. You can be the legend you want to be.

I recommend this film for kids age 13 to 18. I do not recommend this for children under the age of 13 due to disturbing visuals, sexual actions and violent behavior. I give this film a 4.5 out of 5 stars. It is in theaters now so, be sure to check it out.

Creed
By Tre’ana H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Creed is a film that sucks you right in, especially when you see a young child in the justice system. It makes you wonder why? Where is the parent? I like this film because Adonis Johnson, the protagonist (Michael B. Jordan) is self determined to fulfill his dream. I connected with him because I can relate to his desire to fulfill and accomplish a goal. The film is a blend of drama, thriller, sports and romance. The director, Ryan Coogler ties this film to Philadelphia which is known as the City of Brotherly Love and known as the home of the other Rocky Balboa movies. I like the how he draws in Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) in this film and the relationship he develops with Adonis throughout all the twists and turns in the script. He creates a suspenseful filled film that leads up to the ending.

This film takes place in Philadelphia where former World Heavyweight Champion Rocky Balboa serves as a trainer and mentor to Adonis Johnson. He is the son of his late friend and former rival Apollo Creed. His step-mother Mary Anne Creed (Phylicia Rashad) visits him in the juvenile detention center and offers him a prominent life to with a promising future. Does Adonis Johnson disappoint her? I can’t say any more. It is a must see and I promise that you will not be disappointed.

My favorite part of this film is when Rocky is writing down the notes for Adonis to improve his training. When he finishes the notes Adonis takes a picture of it on his phone and as he walks away, Rocky points out that he left the notes. He tells Rocky that he’s got it on his phone and Rocky asks, “What if your phone breaks?” Adonis says, “It’s saved in the cloud!” Rocky really thinks he means a real cloud in the sky and looks up. It is so hilarious because Adonis is, of course, talking about the cyber cloud. The whole entire audience laughs out loud.

The message of the film is stay determined to fulfill your dreams and don’t never give up.

I recommend this film for ages 13 to 18 and give it 5 out of 5 stars because it is an excellent film to watch and you will definitely find it entertaining, especially those peo9ple from my hometown city of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love.

This movie is in theaters now so, go check it out.

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