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Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. After he grows up and draws himself off the book’s pages and into the physical world, Harold finds he has a lot to learn about real life—and that his trusty purple crayon may set off more hilarious hijinks than he thought possible. When the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it will take all of Harold and his friends’ creativity to save both the real world and his own. Harold and the Purple Crayon is the first film adaptation of the beloved children’s classic that has captivated young readers for decades.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ari S. comments, “I thoroughly enjoyed Harold and the Purple Crayon for its imaginative storyline and vibrant animation. The film beautifully captures the essence of creativity and the wonders of a child’s imagination, making it delightful to watch…One of the standout aspects of Harold and the Purple Crayon is its stunning animation, which brings Harold’s drawings to life with vivid colors and fluid movements.” Kennedy P. adds, “I love Harold and the Purple Crayon.  It’s a great family movie, and one that really drew me in.  This film is inspired by the beloved 1955 children’s book that has captivated young readers for decades.  The film had me laughing out loud and imagining what it would be like to create something with my own magic purple crayon.” See their full reviews and interviews with cast and crew below.

Harold and the Purple Crayon
By Ari S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

I thoroughly enjoyed Harold and the Purple Crayon for its imaginative storyline and vibrant animation. The film beautifully captures the essence of creativity and the wonders of a child’s imagination, making it delightful to watch. Its seamless blend of whimsy and real-world elements offers a refreshing cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In Harold and the Purple Crayon, grown-up Harold (Zachary Levi) steps out of his book and into the real world, bringing his magical purple crayon with him. This crayon allows him to create anything he can imagine simply by drawing it. However, Harold soon discovers that life outside the pages is more complex and challenging than he ever expected. As the power of his crayon attracts the attention of those with less pure intentions, Harold and his friends must use their creativity and wits to protect both their magical world and the real one from impending chaos.

Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

One of the standout aspects of Harold and the Purple Crayon is its stunning animation, which brings Harold’s drawings to life with vivid colors and fluid movements. The film masterfully blends whimsical drawings with real-world settings, creating a seamless and enchanting visual experience. The storyline is engaging, striking a perfect balance between humor and heartwarming moments as Harold navigates his new reality.

The voice acting is superb, with each character adding depth and personality to their roles, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The film’s pace is excellent, keeping me hooked from start to finish, with each scene building anticipation and excitement. The creativity displayed in solving problems with the crayon is both amusing and inspiring, showing that imagination knows no bounds.

(L to R) Lil Rel Howery “Moose” and Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

At its core, Harold and the Purple Crayon teaches us that creativity and imagination are powerful tools that can solve even the most challenging problems.

I give Harold and the Purple Crayon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on August 2, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

Harold and the Purple Crayon
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 10

I love Harold and the Purple Crayon.  It’s a great family movie, and one that really drew me in.  This film is inspired by the beloved 1955 children’s book that has captivated young readers for decades.  The film had me laughing out loud and imagining what it would be like to create something with my own magic purple crayon.

Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. When he grows up, Harold draws himself off of the book’s pages and into the physical world with his pals, Moose (Lil Rel Howery) and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), where they meet a widowed mom named Terry (Zooey Deschanel) and her still-grieving son, Mel (Benjamin Bottani).

Harold discovers that he has a lot to learn about real life and when

the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it takes all of Harold and his friends’ creativity to save both the real world and his own.

This movie is tons of fun and filled with hilarious hijinks making the impossible possible. I love the comedy, the heartfelt story, the family values and the endless imagination.  I really love how they took the book and stretched it out and made it into something amusing and cinematic at the same time.

(L to R) Zachary Levi “Harold”, Benjamin Bottani “Mel” and Lil Rel Howery “Moose” in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

I love watching Harold draw so many things throughout the movie that come to life on the big screen, like a plane, pies, a bike, a tire, and so many other things.  Also, there is so much chemistry with all of the characters that you can feel it through the big screen, like when they all work together to help Harold find his dad.  There are so many adventures they go on during the film.  I love the scene when Harold and Moose go to Terry’s workplace and things get out of hand when Harold starts drawing whatever people are looking for.

This film has something for everyone – it is a family movie, with layers that adults will enjoy as much as kids.

The film’s message is to believe in yourself, never stop imagining and explore your creativity no matter your age.

I give Harold and the Purple Crayon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Harold and the Purple Crayon beginning August 2, 2024.

When Bikini Bottom and all its denizens are suddenly scooped out of the ocean, Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob SquarePants journey to Texas where they meet Sandy’s family and must save Bikini Bottom from the hands of an evil CEO.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalynn G. comments, “The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous, I laughed out loud at almost every joke! …Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case. See her full review and interview below.

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie
By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous; I laughed out loud at almost every joke! I love the new characters they introduce from Sandy Cheeks’ family. Their costumes are very creative.

The storyline follows Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence) and her friend SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) while they go on an adventure in Galveston, Texas to save their home, Bikini Bottom, and all their friends. An evil scientist (Wanda Sykes) captures their ocean companions including Squidward (Roger Bumpass) and Patrick Star (Bill Fagerbakke) to clone them and sell them as pets. Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob face many obstacles such as rattlesnakes and dogs while they rescue their friends.

This film brings all the laughs! Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case.  I also found it funny how the scientists wear cowboy hats and boots instead of normal lab coats. Every Texas stereotype is used, including their language. You hear, “I reckon and Dagnamit,” and everyone is riding a horse.

Sandy Cheeks shows her love for her hometown in a big way.  I love how they introduce Sandy Cheeks’ family. I did not expect a secret whistle to call everyone together. I also enjoy how Sandy Cheek’s family supports what Sandy wants to do since she doesn’t want to be in the circus and continue in the family business.

The film’s messages are about using teamwork to accomplish important tasks and a reminder that sometimes your friends are a part of your family.

I give Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. This film releases on Netflix Aug 2, 2024.

New school. New family. New superpower. It’s a season of change for 12-year-old Ben Vasani when he discovers that he can transform into anyone he meets. As a shapeshifter, Ben must figure out who he is and who he wants to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!” Ella S. adds, “I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.” See their full reviews and interviews below.

Me
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!

This show is about a 12-year-old boy named Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) who is anxious about his untrodden world. He has a new family, new school, and newly discovered powers. Luckily, he has a step-sister, Max, (Abigail Pniowsky) to help him traverse all of the peculiar surprises that pop-up. Viewers follow Ben as he tries to untangle the mysteries of his surroundings and finally discover his true self.

Me had my heart racing. All of the characters struggle with growing-up and figuring out who they truly want to be in this world. It is a relatable story with many twists and turns. The super power special effects are very realistic – from hands bubbling into new shades to swapping of ears. Furthermore, there is a storm that blows through the fictional town of Boatright that made me concerned for the fate of the characters. It has supernatural attributes twisted into a tornado-like beast. All of these are executed flawlessly.

All of the main characters are also perfectly cast. Lucian-River Chauhan’s performance as Ben made me believe that he was a nervous and unsure kid and my anxiety rose as I watched him navigate his surroundings. Max is the opposite of Ben. Abigail Pniowsky shines with her confidence as Max and his ability to keep Ben in check. The supporting actors help pull the show together. Carter Kennedy (Amanda Reid) scared me at first, but I quickly realized that she just might be the key to the mysteries that Ben and Max are trying to unravel. Darren Kennedy (Sharif Atkins) adds suspense to the story as well as introduces an important asset to the unsolved puzzle.

The film’s message is about discovery, learning what your gifts are and a reminder to not waste them. Be aware that the show does have some violence and dangerous activities.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The first ten episodes premiere globally on Friday, July 12, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Me
By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.

When 12-year-old Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) moves in with a new father and stepsister after his mother (Dilshad Valsaria) remarries, his life turns upside down. As Ben is adjusting to a new school and new friends he suddenly realizes he has the ability to shapeshift into anyone around him! The only problem is, he can’t control when it happens and who he becomes. Ben and his stepsister Max (Abigail Pniowsky) attempt to discover what triggers the shift and uncover the truth about his abilities, discovering much bigger secrets along the way.

The creators of Me had a brilliant idea and flawlessly executed it. It’s not every day we get to see a tween superhero. Me has just the right ratio of fantasy to real life that makes it relatable to tween and teenage viewers. For example, Ben struggles with being bullied, which unfortunately many kids can relate to. He faces the dilemma of whether or not he should use his powers to shapeshift into and expose the bully, Jason, because doing so would mean bullying another kid. The right decision is not always clear, especially to young people, because we are still learning from our experiences. Even though Ben has these extraordinary abilities, in many ways he is in the same boat as the rest of us, discovering who he is, what his values and beliefs are, and how to do the right thing. The “superhero” aspect of Ben’s life is balanced by his age.

Another feature of the show that caught my attention are the special effects, especially during the storm. The combination of the sight, sound, the actors’ reactions, and especially the angle from which it is shot makes it feel three-dimensional, as though you are standing inside the tornado. Special effects are also used to show the special abilities of some of the other characters, such as levitation and the ability to shoot ice on command. Superhero fans will enjoy this aspect of the show, plus it contains fast-paced battle scenes, acts of magic, and an interesting subplot following the secret society of PEOPLE behind Ben’s abilities.

The show’s message is that we are always learning about ourselves and discovering who we are. Your identity is unique and you should embrace who you are because there is no other person like you. No one can be you better than you can be. Be aware that this show contains many scenes of bullying, both verbal and mild physical violence, but no blood is shown.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, plus adults. Me releases on Apple TV on July 21, 2024.

After the Queen of Hearts incites a coup on Auradon, her rebellious daughter Red and Cinderella’s perfectionist daughter Chloe join forces and travel back in time to try to undo the traumatic event that set Red’s mother down her villainous path.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P., comments, “I love the new Descendants: The Rise Of Red.  It is captivating by combining thrilling action with emotional depth, amazing visuals and great musical numbers. Plus there are strong performances and a great plot…” See her full review below.

Descendants: The Rise Of Red
By Kennedy P., KIDS First!  Film Critic, age 10

I love the new Descendants: The Rise Of Red.  It is captivating by combining thrilling action with emotional depth, amazing visuals and great musical numbers. Plus there are strong performances and a great plot, which keep the magic of the franchise alive while introducing new elements.

Directed by Jennifer Phang, Descendants: The Rise of Red introduces Red (Kylie Cantrallr), the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts (Rita Ora), and Chloe (Malia Baker), Cinderella’s (Brandy Norwood) perfectionist daughter. When the tyrannical Queen of Hearts incites a coup against Auradon, polar opposites Red and Chloe must join forces and travel back in time using a magical pocket watch to undo the traumatic event that set Red’s mother down her villainous path.

The Descendants movies always have the best musical numbers and phenomenal dance choreography. The soundtrack is out now and I already know the lyrics by heart. The set designs, costumes, hair and makeup are all amazing. The brilliant Emilio Sosa designed the dazzling costumes worn by Red, Chloe, Uliana, Cinderella and Bridget / Queen of Hearts. The film is family friendly and there is so much chemistry with these characters you can feel it through the screen.  The villains in this film are so good.  They are wicked and their facial expressions and mannerism are spot on with their characters. You don’t need to see the previous Descendants movies to watch The Rise Of Red, but I highly recommend watching them all in order. They are all on Disney+. There is a beautiful tribute to Carlos (Cameron Boyce) that will have you in tears at the beginning of the movie. Cameron played Carlos in the previous Descendants movies and tragically passed away at the age of 20.  Whether you are a longtime fan (like me) or a newcomer, this film offers something magical for everyone. This movie will bring a new generation of fans to Auradon and sets up a lot more stories to come for VK’s!

The film is about friendship, not judging a book by its cover, mom and daughter relationships, doing what is right and working together.

I give Descendants: The Rise Of Red 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Descendants: The Rise Of Red on Disney+ now.

The eagerly awaited follow-up to 2020’s action comedy, My Spy The Eternal City reunites a beloved cast led by Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman in a feel-good family adventure set in some of Europe’s most storied destinations. When Sophie’s high school choir is selected for an Italian tour culminating in a performance for the Pope in Vatican City, JJ sees this as an opportunity to bond with his new stepdaughter, so he volunteers to help chaperone the group through the Venetian canals, across Florence’s renowned bridges and into Rome’s most historic sites. Instead he finds that he and Sophie have become unwitting pawns in a terrorist plot that could end the world as we know it. Returning stars Ken Jeong and Kristen Schaal are joined by Anna Faris, Craig Robinson and Flula Borg in this all-new international action comedy from director Pete Segal.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “I really enjoyed My Spy: The Eternal City! It’s full of action-packed fight sequences, comedic dialogue, and incredible acting.  This is a great movie for the summer. Although the movie has a few cliché moments and isn’t always realistic… it’s just a fun movie about a tech-savvy and sarcastic teenage spy and her CIA stepdad.” See her full review and interviews with cast & crew below.

My Spy: The Eternal City
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I really enjoyed My Spy: The Eternal City! It’s full of action-packed fight sequences, comedic dialogue, and incredible acting.  This is a great movie for the summer.

In this second My Spy installment, Sophie (Chloe Coleman) is no longer a nine-year-old girl – she’s in high school now. JJ (Dave Bautista) no longer works in the field for the CIA – he works on intelligence in an office and wants to stay closer to the family. And when Sophie’s school choir gets invited to perform at the Vatican in Rome, JJ takes the opportunity to chaperone and monitor his stepdaughter.  As a deadly scheme threatens to the Vatican, they go on a mission to stop the catastrophe and the bad guys before it’s too late.

Although the movie has a few cliché moments and isn’t always realistic, it’s not supposed to be. It’s just a fun movie about a tech-savvy and sarcastic teenage spy and her CIA stepdad. The chemistry between all the characters is undeniable. I was lucky enough to get to speak to some of the cast about their roles and experiences in this movie and they truly are a family, on-set and off. Every actor in this film is absolutely hilarious. Ken Jeong, who plays David Kim, has such a dynamic character as he switches between over-protective, loving and slightly embarrassing father to director of the CIA.

Kristen Schaal, as Bobbi, always delivers her lines so perfectly. Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman, as JJ and Sophie respectively, are such an amazing duo. Dave Bautista really captures a step-dad’s desire to be a bigger part of Sophie’s life and Chloe nails the rebellious teenager who wants more freedom and independence. Additionally, Chloe Coleman did many of her own stunts, which is very impressive knowing how dangerous some of those stunts were.

Similar to the first movie, the messages of My Spy: The Eternal City emphasize how family is and how family can be found, not just born into. There is some violence, mild profanity and risky behaviors that children shouldn’t try to replicate.

I give My Spy: The Eternal City 5 of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. People who enjoyed the previous My Spy movie will want to see this one. It comes out on Prime Video on July 18, 2024.