Bond is Back! In the era of Daniel Craig’s portrayal of 007 who suits the character quite well. Directed by Sam Mendes who, as we learned from Skyfall, delivers a darn good Bond film. This is truly an action spectacle, filled with eye-popping stunts and outrageous cinematography, fantastic locations and non-stop explosions. The script could use some work. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kendyl P. (age 13) comments, “Spectre is an interesting and intense movie filled with adventure and high action.” Miles T. (age 10) adds, “The new James Bond movie, Spectre, is an interesting and exciting film, but might be a bit too scary for most kids under thirteen. In fact, one of the scenes was so scary that I’m not even going to write about it!”
Spectre
By Kendyl P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
Spectre is an interesting and intense movie filled with adventure and high action. It features our favorite, highly trained assassin, James Bond (Daniel Craig), also known as 007. The 00 program is being threatened to be shut down because it is believed to be obsolete and its replacement is the formation of a new world order of surveillance technology secretly headed up by the villain organization Spectre. Bond has a special mission that he can’t share with anyone yet, he finds himself in bit of trouble carrying out the mission. Indirectly, this secret mission will lead him directly to the very source that is trying to dismantle the 00 program and control the world’s collection and distribution data and technology.
The message of this film is DO NOT let anything come in the way of you completing your mission. In the movie, there are a few who know they are not going to live to complete their mission. However, they did not let death stop them from completing it. They are able to set up a plan to have the mission completed by someone else so the job still gets done which also proves no one is an island and we all need help to accomplish our goals.
My favorite scene is when James is protecting Madeline while she is sleeping and he is half awake. A rat appears in the dark. He takes out his gun and says to the rat, “Who are you and who sent you?” He does not realize that he is talking to a rat the whole time.
My favorite character is Madeline Swann (Lea Seydoux) because she’s really cool. She is extremely smart, well trained and very quick. She is the perfect wing woman!
I highly recommend this movie for boy’s ages 14 to 18 as well as girls who like action filled movies. I give this film 4.5 shinning stars. Spectre opens in theaters November 6, 2015.
Spectre
By Miles T, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10
The new James Bond movie, Spectre, is an interesting and exciting film, but might be a bit too scary for most kids under thirteen. In fact, one of the scenes was so scary that I’m not even going to write about it! The movie begins with an amazing action scene where James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, gets a ring with a symbol on it from a bad guy. This ring and this symbol becomes the mystery that James Bond has to solve.
I have been told that the title sequel is typical of a James Bond movie, but other parts of the film may not be appropriate for kids under thirteen. The title sequence contained animation, partially naked women and octopus; it was pretty strange.
The main plot involves James Bond trying to track down a mysterious and deadly organization. He is trying to piece together what the organization is really up to. Discovering how all of the people and events are connected from his present and his past are vital in cracking the mystery. Like most James Bond movies, it takes place in many exotic locations and several languages are spoken. There are some subtitles in parts which add a special element as well.
The movie is action packed and full of fight and chase scenes. The special effects are very good but I got annoyed during the action-packed scenes. In almost every fight scene there were so many quick cuts that I couldn’t follow the action, everything was like a white blur.
I read that this is the second-most expensive movie ever made. Spectre has many special effects including lots of explosions, stunt doubles, special makeup and wires. Spectre ended up spending over 300 million dollars making this film. Unfortunately, there are many other movies that are just as good with only half as much of a budget.
Spectre is two and a half hours long and there were several times I thought the movie might end, but it kept going. The music is very suspenseful, which is one of the main reasons it is so scary. The sound effects are also very realistic, but they were almost too loud which amplifies how scary the movie is.
I rate this movie 3.5 out of 5 stars, mainly because it was so scary. I would recommend this for ages 13+ due to the amount of violence and the nudity in the title sequence. I think that adults would definitely like it more than kids.
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Whether you grew up reading Peanuts in the Sunday comics or watched the Peanuts Specials on TV, you will know the names of these iconic characters – Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus… This film brings the entire Peanuts gang to the big screen in state of the art 3D animation. Charlie Brown, the world’s most beloved underdog, embarks upon an epic and heroic quest, while his best pal, the lovable beagle Snoopy, takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis, the Red Baron. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O. comments, “The Peanuts Movie has a lot to offer. It’s funny, lighthearted and has a great message to share. In addition, the creators worked in a few surprises that will captivate new viewers and bring back childhood memories for adults..” Mia A. adds, “The moral to this film is, “if you see yourself as a winner or a loser in life, you are probably going to act like one. If you think you are a winner, act like one and others might think so too.” Brandon wraps it up with, “Visually, the world in The Peanuts Movie is stunning. The hair detail is the one thing that really stands out to me, maybe not hair movement but the detail.” See their full reviews below.
The Peanuts Movie
By Mia A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11
I really enjoy The Peanuts Movie. It reminds me of the classic Charlie Brown movies, but even better! Even though the Peanuts creator, Charles M. Schulz passed away in 2000, this movie is a tribute to his memory and the legacy that he left behind.
While the members of the Peanuts Gang look and act like their loveable selves, there are many updates to this film. The animation is much more detailed than the previous movies and viewers are able to watch it in 3D. There are many new upbeat songs in addition to the much loved tunes. “Better When I’m Dancin’” by Meghan Trainor is a great addition to the original songs.
The Peanuts Movie is about Charlie Brown trying to break his losing streak so the little Red Haired Girl (voiced by Disney’s Francesca Capaldi) will view him differently than his friends do. He tries to change his luck in a dance contest, a talent show, flying a kite and writing a book report. Also, Snoopy tries to defeat the Red Baron in order to win the love of his life Fi Fi, voiced by Kristen Chenoweth.
My favorite character is Snoopy because he is very funny. His story is well written and filled with love, comedy and adventure. Some of the funniest characters are Lucy, Sally, Snoopy and Woodstock. They got great laughs from the audience including kids as young as three. All the voice talent perfectly suits their characters. Fans of Linus, Schroeder, Pig Pen, Peppermint Patty and all the others will not be disappointed.
The moral to this film is, “if you see yourself as a winner or a loser in life, you are probably going to act like one. If you think you are a winner, act like one and others might think so too.”
I rate The Peanuts Movie 5 out of 5 stars because of the colorful animation and it being true to the original Peanuts Gang. I recommend this movie for ages 3 to 15 or any people who have enjoyed the other Peanuts movies. At the end of this film there is a 3 second clip. The credits are very long so be sure to stick around until the end. You may love it!
The Peanuts Movie opens on November 6th in theaters nationwide.
The Peanuts Movie
By Gerry Orz, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13
Many kids today have never heard about the Peanuts Gang and some don’t even know who Charlie Brown and Snoopy are. Well, that’s about to change! So many children will have the opportunity to discover characters that their parents grew up with. That’s right! The Peanuts Gang are back and they are stronger than ever!
The Peanuts Movie has a lot to offer. It’s funny, lighthearted and has a great message to share. In addition, the creators worked in a few surprises that will captivate new viewers and bring back childhood memories for adults, keeping the whole audience entertained.
The story is about a well-known Peanut named Charlie Brown and his interactions during a new school year. Although Charlie is always running into bad luck, he still remains good old Charlie Brown. Always doing the right thing and never giving up is what Charlie Brown is all about. Even when he hits a moment of good luck, Charlie remains the same endearing character everyone has grown to love.
This story is beautiful, colorful, and the animation is unique. Even though it is based on familiar characters, the story itself is original and prepared so well. Director Steve Martino manages to make use of modern technology and CGI to makes the Peanut’s world 3D while keeping the feel of the original comics. The son and grandson of the Peanuts creator Charles Schultz are the screenwriters of this story. There’s no question of whether or not you can feel how much love and affection is put into every line and every scene. It jumps off the screen.
My favorite scene is when Charlie Brown is trying to impress his object of affection. He decides to learn how to dance for a school competition. As he starts, his friend Snoopy comes in and starts dancing to Latin tunes. This comical scene shows the bond that Charlie and his dog have like no other. Viewers can’t help but hold their breath to see if they will succeed and Charlie Brown becomes the best dancer.
This film is very child friendly! I recommend it for ages 4 to 18. Younger kids will enjoy the colors and catchy music but may not completely understand the story. I give this movie 5 out of 5 stars for an engaging story line and a successful effort to bring the beloved Peanuts Gang back to us.
The Peanuts Movie
By Brandon C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
The Peanuts Movie is mildly entertaining…yeah! This movie follows Charlie Brown, voiced by Noah Schnapp and the gang through fun times and adventures. The story itself revolves around Charlie Brown’s obsession over the Little Red-Haired Girl, voiced by Francesca Capaldi.
Everyone’s favorite characters are on full display in this cute movie, featuring Snoopy, Linus, Patty, Lucy and many more. Everyone gets their big quote or line, which is great for older fans yet still funny to younger ones. As a fan of the Peanuts comics, I believe director Steve Martino does every character justice and stays true to every character’s funny quirks and qualities.
Visually, the world in The Peanuts Movie is stunning. The hair detail is the one thing that really stands out to me, maybe not hair movement but the detail. The audio is very clear. However, the musical score could use some improvement.
I was going to give this film 4 out of 5 Woodstocks because it is a fun, cute movie. However, I got slightly bored towards the end. Everything carries on just a bit too much. The characters get a bit old. So, I’ll admit it. I took a nap. Now, I did not completely doze off. But, I just was not feeling it.
The Peanuts Movie has a very wide appeal, as the film contains slapstick comedy for the kids and great, funny dialogue for parents and older fans. Because the movie got a bit boring towards the end, I give The Peanuts Movie a reluctant 3 out of 5 Woodstocks for its great dialogue and funny moments. If only the movie was a bit shorter, I would have probably given it 4 out of 5 Woodstocks.
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This Disney / Pixar film, Inside Out comes out on DVD/Blu-ray/Digital November 3. Our youth reporters have call it a “masterpiece” of animation and love the storyline which explores the bumpy road of pre-teens and the emotions they experience while growing up. It explores the emotions that a young girl, Riley experiences when her family moves cross country and she is torn away from everything that is familiar. As Riley and her emotions struggle to adjust to a new life in a new city, turmoil ensues with her emotions. Although Riley’s main and most important emotion, Joy tries to keep things positive, her other emotions kick in as she tries to navigate a new city, new house and new school. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Willie J. comments, “We have a masterpiece on our hands. Pixar has done it again… I will gladly go on record by calling this one of the finest animated features to ever be created.” Ryan R. adds, “I love watching Inside Out because it is hilarious and enjoyable for all ages.” Samantha A. concludes with, “Something I really enjoy about this movie is that it’s a childish take on a more complex topic… One thing I learned from this movie is that you don’t always have to be happy. It’s good to express other feelings like sadness or anger.” See their full reviews below.
Inside Out (DVD/Blu-ray/Digital)
by Willie J., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a masterpiece on our hands. Pixar has done it again. They already lay claim to two of the top 100 movies of all-time with Up and Wall-E and they have now added Inside Out to their mantelpiece. I will gladly go on record by calling this one of the finest animated features to ever be created. Why? Because it’s THE most innovative, imaginative and creative film to be made since 2008s Synecdoche, New York.
The beautiful thing about this movie is that both adults and children can enjoy it. As a matter of fact, I’d say that adults may enjoy it more, because they can have a more fundamental understanding of what this film is. It is 100 minutes of analogous brilliance, that changes our idea of what goes on in our heads. Is this idea fathomable or true? No. But the analogy provides the very product film was invented to produce: a stimulation of the imagination.
Children will enjoy the beautiful colors and the basic plot. What the children can understand is what they can relate to: growing up and adjusting to life as they enter puberty. They will laugh at things that SEEM funny or the more, for lack of better word, simple pieces of humor. But the true jokes, the pieces of humor that have the most intellect are the ones children won’t understand. I appreciate those the most because they’re fathomable. It’s the moment when you laugh, not because the joke is ridiculous, but because you can actually imagine that happening.
Amidst the hilarity there is also a certain depth of emotion. There is a tear-jerking moment, yes, but I mean more along the lines of nostalgia. The way the movie portrays the effects of the emotions and the rationalization that go along with them, conjure a desire to reflect on oneself in their pre-teen days. This film may literally get into the mind of a pre-teen, but the metaphorical representation is what seals the reflection. “I was like that?”, “Is that how I thought then…I that how I think now?” may be questions you find yourself asking yourself. These are the effects of a brilliant screenplay.
On a final and personal note, I’ll tell this short story. There is a scene in the film, where two officers are questioning a cloud in Imagination Land about her dead husband. Then, in the middle of the interrogation the cloud herself is killed as she is run through by our main character. One cop goes, “Hey wait…”, but as he says that, the other cop grabs him and says, “Forget it Jake, it’s Cloud Town.” Get it? It’s a parody of the famous final words from the classic 1974 noir, Chinatown. I’ll tell you, it wasn’t very comfortable being the only person in the theater laughing at that joke. It’s just one joke amongst many. Beyond the hilarity and, mainly due to the aforementioned reasons I explained, I happily give this instant classic 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend it for ages 7 to 18.
This film will be released on DVD/Blu-ray/Digital on November 3 and its bonus features are very informative and engaging. They give wonderful insights to the making of the movie. The feature, Story of the Story really tells you how much thinking went into this story. Mixed Emotions and Mapping the Mind go hand in hand as they provide both characterizations of the emotions and scientific findings pertaining to our emotions. There are also great features about the underrated parts of making this movie, like how the score was created and what the editing was like. My favorite of all of them, is the short film Lava which has become one of my favorite short films.
Inside Out (DVD/Blu-ray/Digital)
By KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Ryan R., age 11
I love watching Inside Out because it is hilarious and enjoyable for all ages. I also like that this movie sends out a positive message on how all five emotions have a role to help Riley (voiced by Kaitlyn Dias).
This film is about five emotions Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger and Disgust. In the movie, Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler) and Sadness (Voiced by Phyllis Smith) need to find their way back to headquarters to save Riley from losing her personality and her emotions Joy and Sadness. Will they be able to save Riley or will Riley live a life without Joy and Sadness? If you want to know more you should go get this DVD.
I really like this Blu-ray/DVD combo because there are so many features. There are deleted scenes, trailers for upcoming movies, and many more. My favorite feature on the Blu-ray disc are two shorts. One is about Riley’s first date and it is hilarious and the other is called Lava which is about a lonely volcano. I love the song in that one. I love deleted scenes because I enjoy seeing them explain why a particular scene wasn’t in the final cut of the movie.
I enjoy this film so much because of the talented voice acting. My favorite character is Joy voiced by Amy Poehler. I love how she portrays the voice of this character and makes the character sound so ecstatic. I like the jokes that her character makes and how she sounds so optimistic. Another reason why she is my favorite character is because she is like me – we are always happy and we both look on the positive side of things. If you need a positive role model, Joy is that!
The moral lesson of this film is that you need to feel every emotion in life. You just can’t be happy in all situations and experiencing each emotion is a good thing. Sadness shows Riley how to be empathetic. Disgust is honest because Disgust tells her whether something is good or not. Fear protects Riley from being hurt. Anger is there to make sure that Riley is not run over. This movie shows how you need to feel all these emotions in order to be a balanced person. It sounds like therapy but it’s not. It’s really fun.
I recommend this to kids ages 3 to 18 and I think adults will like this as well. I also recommend this to people who like animated family and adventure movies. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend the DVD combo pack for all the extra features it includes.
Inside Out
By Gerry O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13
When you think of a Disney/Pixar film, you think of a film that resembles a fairy tale story. I am extremely surprised by Inside Out. Not only did it make me laugh and almost cry, but it was intense and the ending was so unexpected.
This, of course, has great comedy that kids of all ages will enjoy and adults as well. However, it isn’t all fun and games. There is a lot of drama in this film, much more than I expected, and there is plenty of action too. But, it is all mixed together very nicely to keep audience entertained.
The story is about a young girl named Riley. She is an 11-year-old hockey fan and overall happy kid. Her family moves to San Francisco and she has to leave her old life behind. In her head, where her emotions control her personality, Sadness and Joy accidently get launched out the hub, where they control her. They have to travel extremely far back to the hub. Will it be too late when they get there? Her only emotions at work are fear, disgust, and anger!
This film is nothing but beautiful and thought provoking. The idea is so original, and the way they pull it off is right on target. The animation is exquisite. I love how they animate and illustrate each emotion to represent its character, down to the smallest detail. There is no possibility left behind. The story takes many twists and turns, making sure the viewer never anticipates the ending. The directing and producing are wonderful. The camera shots are amazing and really explore the scenes and the world around the characters.
My favorite scene is when Riley’s emotions first come to life. She is a newborn and her first emotion is Joy, then Sadness and the rest come afterwards. The thing I like about this most is that it shows that Riley is different. Usually a baby is immediately sad, not joyful. But this shows Riley is really a happy and cheerful girl. It is a very important scene and really takes a look at Riley herself, deeper than the viewer originally thinks when they first see it.
The only thing parents should be worried about in this movie is that it might be a bit too dramatic for little kids and it might be difficult for them to understand the concept of these emotions. So, I recommend it for ages four to eighteen and I give it five out of five stars because, over all, it is a beautifully executed original story.
The Inside Out DVD Combo includes a blu-ray disc, a blu-ray bonus feature disc and a regular DVD with bonus features. Bonus materials on DVD deserve a special mention. If you would like to see the movie with the comments from the creators, you can turn that feature on and immediately see the story from a different prospective. I most liked the fact how you are truly discovering the hidden story behind the one on the screen.
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This DVD features four STEM-based adventures from the Doozers, a TV show produced by Jim Henson Productions and released by N Circle Entertainment. It’s Spookypalooza! The time of year when all Doozers get together to spook each other. The Pod Squad makes the spookiest pumpkin ever, a cool Pumpkin Doozer made by stacking three pumpkins together. But when their new invention starts rolling all around town, the Doozers have to find a way to reign in their spooky creation! KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan R. comments, “The moral lesson of this DVD is “If you collaborate with others, you can accomplish anything.” See his full review below.
Doozers: Spookypalooza
By Ryan R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11
I really enjoyed this DVD. In this cute, animated show, we meet four characters who work for The Doozer Pod Squad. They make kids understand how to work together as a team. There are four episodes included in this DVD.
I like this show because it talks about the importance of working together. The characters are all very cute and I like that they talk about creativity and how you can make anything when you work together as a team and don’t give up.
I like this show so much that the only thing I don’t like is how short the episodes are. I wish that the episodes were a little longer.
My favorite character is Daisy Wheel Doozer (voiced by Millie Davis), because she is the nicest and youngest character. I can relate to her since we are both the youngest amongst our peers. I like that she can do most of the stuff on her own and I’m the same way.
The moral lesson of this DVD is “If you collaborate with others, you can accomplish anything.” I say that because, when The Doozers have a goal, they work together to accomplish it. This helps kids understand that it is okay to work together and it will help kids learn how to collaborate with others.
In terms of features on the DVD, you can select individual episodes to watch or you can select “play all.” You can also fast forward or rewind the movie.
I recommend this to kids who like adventure and educational shows. It’s perfect for kids ages 3 to 8. Kids above that age may find it a bit boring. For that age, I give this show 5 out of 5 stars. This is a really great show and it is available now on DVD.
Doozers Spookypalooza
By Morgan B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10
Jim Henson’s three inch green charters, the Doozers from the wonderful Fraggle Rock adventures can now be found on a new DVD.
Perfect for the fall season this DVD contains four episodes including Spookypalooza where we learn how to get three pumpkins on top of each other using imagination and creative tools. Things do not always go as planned but eventually life always works itself out.
Legend of Doozer Creek is another Halloween theme which we learn how the Doozers celebrate their fall holiday. There is a crazy sphinx who loves to jump out and scare Doozers. The magic wizard and the Doozers must do what they can to stop him.
Mystery Box is impossible to open. The Doozrers have to use their heads and come with many ideas to crack this mystery.
Doozers of a Dippleplant finds them gardening to try and break a record for the biggest plant. In the process they lean much and much more.
Be-leaf It asks the question, “What are leaves good for?”
My favorite story is Legend of Doozer Creek. It is told like a fairy tale and I love fairy tales. It has a great story line which leads the Doozers on an adventure. They learn a unique way to solve a problem. What would you do if a crazy sphinx was on the loose?
The animation is colorful and the story lines are easy to follow. The writers have a great imagination. Jim Henson and this team always seem to know what kids will enjoy and kids are sure to enjoy this new DVD. You might not have the tools that the Doozers use but it encourages you to want to build something. It made me feel like there is never a problem that with a little thought and creativity cannot be solved.
The voice-overs are great because the voices of the characters are so cute. They match the little green Doozers perfectly. They have different personalities and qualities which all work together.
My favorite character is Molly Bolt who is so cute I just want to hug her. She is smart, thoughtful and always encouraging. She exemplifies the theme of Lets do, do, do it and lend a hand.
I recommend this DVD for ages 2 to 7. This is definitely for younger kids. Since it is four short stories, it is easy to watch just one episode or all depending on the child. This is a fun family friendly movie. I give this DVD 4 Spooky pumpkins out of 5.
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This DVD reveals the life story of Harry Houdini starting from his early childhood. It reveals some of Harry’s difficulties in pursuing his dream and how meeting the Great Tesla changed everything for him. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan R. comments, “I can relate to him because we both have dreams and we both find ways to pursuit them. He had a lot of motivation.” See his full review below.
Houdini
By KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Ryan R., age 11
I really enjoy this film. I liked this story because the plot of the movie shows how you can do anything when you put your mind to do it. I also like that it shows that, even though Harry isn’t great, he doesn’t give up. This film is an hour long and doesn’t feel rushed. I like that this movie has a nice message along with a nice plot.
The story of Houdini takes place in 1866. It is about a boy named Harry, who dreams of becoming a magician. He gets an opportunity to go to New York to win a contest. If he wins, he will get to perform in New York. The problem is he needs help and so, another magician helps him out.
Something I don’t like is that are no bonus features on the DVD. There are only chapters. I was surprised to find that out. The movie just begins with no introduction to the features. Other than that, I really loved it.
The message of this film is “to follow your dreams and never give up when the challenge gets hard.” I say that because Harry first had problems with performing magic. But, he always wanted to be a magician and he never gave up. He went to New York to practice so he could achieve his goals. And, if you want to know more, you should need to watch see this DVD.
My favorite character is Harry because he reminds me of myself. He reminds me of myself when I took a chance to do KIDS FIRST! I can relate to him because we both have dreams and we both find ways to pursuit them. He had a lot of motivation.
I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend this to kids ages 4 to 18. I think some adults may like this as well. I also recommend this to people who like action and adventure movies.
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Bond is Back! In the era of Daniel Craig’s portrayal of 007 who suits the character quite well. Directed by Sam Mendes who, as we learned from Skyfall, delivers a darn good Bond film. This is truly an action spectacle, filled with eye-popping stunts and outrageous cinematography, fantastic locations and non-stop explosions. The script could use some work. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kendyl P. (age 13) comments, “Spectre is an interesting and intense movie filled with adventure and high action.” Miles T. (age 10) adds, “The new James Bond movie, Spectre, is an interesting and exciting film, but might be a bit too scary for most kids under thirteen. In fact, one of the scenes was so scary that I’m not even going to write about it!”
