KIDS FIRST! News

Season two of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is based on the second installment of Disney Hyperion’s best-selling book series titled “The Sea of Monsters” by award-winning author Rick Riordan. In the new season, Percy Jackson returns to Camp Half-Blood one year later to find his world turned upside down. His friendship with Annabeth is changing, he learns he has a cyclops for a brother, Grover has gone missing, and Camp Half-Blood is under siege from the forces of Kronos. Percy’s journey to set things right will take him off the map and into the deadly Sea of Monsters, where a secret fate awaits the son of Poseidon.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I got an early look at the first four episodes of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 and it is incredible.  The season picks up right where the previous season left off and each episode is filled with action, adventure, humor, and it kept me on the edge of my seat.” See her full review and interviews with Author/co-director/producer Rick Riordan and cast members below.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, Age 11

I got an early look at the first four episodes of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 and it is incredible.  The season picks up right where the previous season left off and each episode is filled with action, adventure, humor, and it kept me on the edge of my seat.

This season adapts the second book in the series, The Sea of Monsters, following Percy, Annabeth, and a cyclops named Tyson as they journey into the Sea of Monsters to find the Golden Fleece and save Camp Half-Blood.

This series offers an amazing mix of magic, friendship, and epic quests that really shines with its amazingly talented cast.

Walker Scobell returns as Percy Jackson, bringing humor and bravery to the character, while Leah Sava Jeffries plays Annabeth Chase with intelligence and heart.

Aryan Simhadri reprises his role as Grover, adding both comic relief and loyalty that make him a fan favorite. New characters are introduced this season, including Daniel Diemer as Tyson, the lovable Cyclops, who is also Percy’s paternal half-brother, the son of Poseidon.

The settings are spectacular – Camp Half-Blood feels even more immersive, from the cabins and training grounds to the surrounding mythical landscapes. The costumes are on point, reflecting each character’s personality and role while staying true to the books. The action sequences are thrilling and well-choreographed, and the CGI brings creatures and magical effects to life in a way that’s both believable and exciting. The story balances moments of humor, friendship, and tension perfectly, making it feel like an epic adventure that’s also deeply personal for the characters.

 

This series is about courage, friendship, and staying true to yourself even when the odds are stacked against you.

It shows that heroes aren’t defined by their powers alone, but by their choices, loyalty, and willingness to do what’s right.

Season 2 reminds viewers that teamwork, trust, and perseverance can overcome even the most impossible challenges, and that growth often comes through facing your fears head-on.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

It premieres on Disney+ on December 10, 2025, with the first two episodes available that day and the other six episodes roll out weekly.

 

The Merchants of Joy is a 2025 documentary following five New York City families who dominate the lucrative, competitive Christmas tree business, showing their year-round hustles, family dynamics, and gritty realities behind the festive holiday tradition, as they battle for prime locations and face challenges from each other and a mysterious rival, blending heartwarming holiday spirit with the tough business of making a living from the season.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Harper B. comments, “Merchants of Joy is an inspiring film about a Christmas tree lot owner’s journey through the Christmas season. I love this film because it depicts a real life situation. It shows how hard the seemingly easy things can be. I also like that it shows how your past doesn’t make you who you are today. The storyline follows five families who all run Christmas tree stands in New York City.” See her full review below.

Merchants of Joy
By Harper B.. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Merchants of Joy is an inspiring film about a Christmas tree lot owner’s journey through the Christmas season. I love this film because it depicts a real life situation. It shows how hard the seemingly easy things can be. I also like that it shows how your past doesn’t make you who you are today.

The storyline follows five families who all run Christmas tree stands in New York City. They all have unique backstories and unique ways of running their stands. This film lets the viewer know there is more to running a stand than just getting some trees and standing out in the cold until people buy your trees.

This is a wonderful film, although it did take me a while to get into the story. There is such a diverse cast. Each tree lot owner is very different from the others. Some of these owners have criminal records; while others have been in the business for as long as 50 years. My favorite part is the end when I realized that selling a Christmas tree is more than just selling a tree – it is selling joyful moments in time. My favorite company is NYC Tree Lady, run by Heather Neville. Heather is a very straightforward person. The reason I enjoyed watching her so much is because she tells you not to dwell on the past. She has a criminal record and still looks to the future and to whom she is today. Heather always looks to the future and encourages the viewer to do the same. She will flat out tell you what to do but then ask what she can do for you. Greg’s Trees, another company, owned by a guy named Greg, who may look alright but he is not.

Little Greg is a high school drop out and is finding time to spend with his father because he doesn’t know when his last Christmas will be. He is also beginning to take over the business for his father.

The film’s message is to not dwell on the past and that things may look better than they are. This film shows love in its deepest form. Please note there is mention of drug use and some profanity.

I give Merchants of Joy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released on VOD on December 1, 2025.

 

Set six years after the events at Camp Cretaceous, members of “The Nublar Six” are struggling to find their footing off the islands, navigating a world now filled with dinosaurs and people who want to hurt them. Reunited in the wake of a tragedy, the group comes together only to find themselves on the run and catapulted into a global adventure to unravel a conspiracy that threatens dinosaur and humankind alike and finally learn the truth about what happened to one of their own.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “Jurassic World: Chaos Theory is a fresh take on the world of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World. This animated TV series keeps the sleek animation style that has made the Jurassic World story so fun to watch for eight seasons (five in Camp Cretaceous and four in Chaos Theory).” Valerie M. adds, “I was hooked from the first episode, binge-watched the entire season, and couldn’t stop thinking about the plot days after I had finished it. The writers really put their hearts and souls into this season. Clearly, they know that children can understand more complex stories, and it gave them the freedom to create Chaos Theory.” See their full reviews below.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory is a fresh take on the world of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World. This animated TV series keeps the sleek animation style that has made the Jurassic World story so fun to watch for eight seasons (five in Camp Cretaceous and four in Chaos Theory).

This season continues the long-running animated Jurassic Park saga. After the chaos of last season’s finale, the heroes are exhausted and looking for a break. But, as always, that doesn’t last. Darius (Paul-Mikél Williams) is dealing with a lot after the return of Brooklyn (Kiersten Kelly) and the overwhelming odds that they will lose this fight against Biosyn. Kenji (Ryan Potter) tries to keep the group’s spirits up, while Sammy (Raini Rodriguez) and Yaz (Kausar Mohammed) bring their own humor and heart to the team.

While Jurassic World: Chaos Theory often shines, it sometimes feels like it stretches the story a little too far. For example, the inclusion of weaponized, assassin dinosaurs feels unnecessary. Dinosaurs are already scary enough when they hunt anything in front of them! The acting is funny and lively, though a few one-liners feel over-the-top and break the suspense, like in episode four, when the team reaches what they think is the data center and everyone piles on with a joke. Still, the story is strong, packed with humor, great animation, and filled with exciting moments. The animation especially stands out, with awesome rendering, realistic water and light effects, and incredible dinosaur designs. The music plays a big part in the series’ tension and energy. It builds suspense and makes the chase scenes even more thrilling. The bond between the characters is one of the best parts, and watching it grow over eight seasons brings a new generation into the Jurassic Park universe.

The main message of Jurassic World: Chaos Theory is that, even in the toughest times, having friends by your side on the journey makes everything better. The show includes themes of friendship, love, and heartbreak. While mostly tame, parents should note that the show does include animated violence and intense moments, like when the team is attacked by a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

I give Jurassic World: Chaos Theory 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. The final season debuts in full on Netflix on November 20, 2025.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory Season 4
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The latest season of Jurassic World: Chaos Theory is possibly the greatest season of an animated show I’ve seen. As complicated character dynamics are mixed in with action-packed adventures, its excellence is undeniable.

Season 4 follows the Nublar Six as they adventure into Biosyn to stop the illegal dinosaur trading they have been carrying out. Secrets come to light that make the team become wary of each other. We journey with the Nublar Six to see if they’ll be able to put their differences aside and stop Biosyn once and for all.

I was hooked from the first episode, binge-watched the entire season, and couldn’t stop thinking about the plot days after I had finished it. The writers really put their hearts and souls into this season. Clearly, they know that children can understand more complex stories, and it gave them the freedom to create Chaos Theory. If you’ve been watching the show since Season 1, you will probably be surprised by what is about to go down. I’ve become attached to the Nublar Six to the point where, for a moment, it felt like they were my friends. One of this season’s strengths is the characters’ relationships. They become happier once they settle their disputes. They work better together when they are not cautious of each other. For all the fans of action out there, don’t worry, Chaos Theory has a perfect amount of content for you as well. The mission is dangerous and the odds are against the team. This season is great at balancing action with emotions. I didn’t feel like I was being bombarded with one chase after another, nor did I feel like I was watching a soap opera. An interesting detail about the design of the Nublar Six: I enjoyed spotting all the little changes in their appearances as time has passed. The animated characters look more like real people.

This season’s message is that it’s better to not keep secrets from your friends if you want to trust each other. Keep in mind there are mentions of injury and possible death, as well as animal testing and loud noises.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory Season 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Jurassic World: Chaos Theory Season 4 premiers globally on Netflix on November 20, 2025.

Greg continually finds himself at odds with his dad’s outsized expectations. As pressure builds to turn his act around after a series of hilarious near disasters, Greg’s dad presents him with an ultimatum–and a trip to wilderness camp–that just might challenge Greg’s wimpy ways for good.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw is an animated film that puts Greg’s wimpy ways to the test. It is packed full of adventure and nostalgia for the original movie and books. It was a lot of fun to watch.” Zoey F. adds, “When I watched this film, I loved seeing the animation so similar to the book’s style, which fans of the book have grown to love. Plus, the film stays mostly true to the book thanks to the screenwriter, character designer and producer all being Jeff Kinney, the author of the original books. My favorite part of this film is how the dynamic in Greg’s family is explored.” See their full reviews and Chase’s interview with Jeff Kinney below.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw is an animated film that puts Greg’s wimpy ways to the test. It is packed full of adventure and nostalgia for the original movie and books. It was a lot of fun to watch.

This movie is adapted from the third installment of Jeff Kinney’s worldwide bestselling book series. It follows Greg Heffley (Aaron Harris) as he continually manages to spin disasters out of thin air. Greg’s dad, Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos), has had enough of Greg’s nonsense and decides that only military school will straighten his son out.

Greg creates a plan to prove that he is able to turn himself around on his own. This creates an adventure that is full of twists and turns as well as multiple unfortunate events. It also provides relatable content for anyone who is trying to figure out how to be seen as an adult. Unfortunately, for Greg, this includes everything from rattling keys to mowing snow.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw had animation that made it seem like a graphic novel that had come to life. It would go from 2D images from the book and shift into 3D movie images. Each transition included a literal page turn that was seamless and engaging. It felt like you were part of the book. The humor from the books stayed on-point in the movie.

The scene where Greg was trying to figure out how to use a door key was hilarious. The pressure built by Greg’s father could be felt as Greg fumbled and failed to successfully open the door. It seemed like his father’s head might explode at any moment. Greg’s Beef Cake Snow Removal Service also was comedic. Every kid tries to take a short cut at some time in their life, but Greg’s shortcut was surprising and catastrophic. It was definitely a wide-eyed, oh my-moment. The movie is full of these types of situations. It truly targets fun for younger audiences.

The show’s message is that growing up is tough. Everyone struggles with becoming an adult, and it is okay to stumble as you figure it out. This show has no violence or inappropriate language.

I give Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It is available for streaming on Disney+ beginning December 5, 2025.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw Review
Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw is a lighthearted and fun movie that is perfect for fans of the original series.

The storyline follows Greg (Aaron D. Harris), who narrowly escapes the Spag Union Reform School by agreeing to become a wood-chipper! He tries to earn all his badges as quickly as possible. This results in distraught kindergarteners, a detention, and complete loss of trust with his dad (Chris Diamantopoulos).

It seems like nothing Greg does is good enough for him. We follow Greg as tries to impress his dad and hopes not to be sent to Spag Union.

When I watched this film, I loved seeing the animation so similar to the book’s style, which fans of the book have grown to love. Plus, the film stays mostly true to the book thanks to the screenwriter, character designer and producer all being Jeff Kinney, the author of the original books.

My favorite part of this film is how the dynamic in Greg’s family is explored. The mom (Erica Cerra) is always very supportive of Greg and she consistently defends him to his dad. However, the sibling relationship between Rodrick (Hunter Dillon), Manny (Gracen Newton) and Greg is pretty underplayed.

Greg is a very complex and interesting character. Although he has many strengths, he has many flaws which are interesting to see. Greg lies to his family many times throughout his film and uses his friends for personal gain. The movie plays this as a funny, lighthearted trait, but in truth, it’s quite a concerning trait. Not only does Greg lie, he also shows no apparent remorse for most of his actions. This makes him a very complex and interesting character to feature in a movie and what makes Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw so engaging. 

The main theme of this film is the importance of integrity. Greg often puts his own needs before anything or everyone else’s and this comes at a cost. He lies about being student of the month and about getting suspended. Greg learns that this cannot substitute hard work and that it is best to be honest.

I give Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. It is available on Disney+ beginning December 5, 2025.

In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryker N. comments, “I absolutely LOVE the film Zootopia 2! All the favorite characters from Zootopia, and then some, are back with comical displays of friendship vs foe. And for the Flash (Raymond S. Persi) fans, he does not disappoint!” Elsy S. adds, “I love the movie Zootopia 2 because of its action-packed intensity, emotional layers, and how it talks about making difficult decisions.” Luna C. wraps it up with, “I was thrilled to dive back into the magical creature world of Zootopia 2, this time exploring the Marsh Market, a vibrant realm dedicated to water animals. I enjoyed seeing Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) step away from his criminal past and absolutely love the new mayor in town. The plot is filled with perfectly balanced twists, a few jump scares, and just the right amount of justice.” See their full reviews and Ari’s interview with directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard and producer Yvett Merino below.

Zootopia 2
By Ryker N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I absolutely LOVE the film Zootopia 2! All the favorite characters from Zootopia, and then some, are back with comical displays of friendship vs foe. And for the Flash (Raymond S. Persi) fans, he does not disappoint!

The story picks up where Zootopia left off with Fox/Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) and Carrots/Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) being teamed up for their first assignment. But this is no ordinary assignment and, as usual, this team cannot stay away from getting involved in a real crime case. The two take on various battles to ultimately help Gary De’ Snake (Ke Huy Quan) recover the loss of reptiles from Zootopia. Bellwether (Jenny Slate) corruptly tries to keep Zootopia a land of predator vs prey, but Nick and Judy bamboozle her in a way that is unexpected to save Zootopia. A suspenseful plot twist centering around antagonist Pawbert Lynxley (Andy Samberg) and his family brings the story full circle as a reminder that villains never win.

Disney has outdone itself with the animation as it even surpasses the animation of Zootopia. The vibrant colors and attention to detail absolutely nail all the weather scenes. Plus, the funny scenes are endless. My favorite ones involve a recording carrot pen that is used several times for amusing blackmail tactics between Nick and Judy. Mr. Big (Maurice LaMarche) returns as one of my most liked characters because of his integrity in helping Nick and Judy by giving them tips along the way.  LaMarche’s voice fits Mr. Big’s character perfectly. Shakira brings the vocals again for another stunning performance as Gazelle.

It fascinates me how many big-name celebrities are in this film with minor roles. The character name puns are hilarious.

For example: Bartender Slick Di’Giguani is played by Nick DiGiovanni, Zeke AKA That Dik-Dik Stuck in that Tuba is played by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Michael J. The Fox by Michael J. Fox, and Ed Shearin is played by none other than Ed Sheeran, to name a few.

This film’s message is about how when everyone works together, despite their differences, everyone wins. The importance of friendship and how to maintain relationships are also common themes throughout the film. Note that there are some violent scenes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Zootopia 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film releases to theaters on November 26, 2025.

Zootopia 2
By Elsy S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the movie Zootopia 2 because of its action-packed intensity, emotional layers, and how it talks about making difficult decisions.

The story takes place in the famous Zootopia, and follows Judy and Nick (Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman) as they work to expose the cunning Lynxleys and save an innocent snake (Ke Huy Quan) from being captured. They infiltrate a gala, and Judy meets a kind Lynxley named Pawbert (Andy Samberg), but they see that the snake has stolen the journal celebrating weather walls, supposedly invented by the Lynxleys, and become the police’s number one target. In the end, Nick goes to jail, but escapes, and Pawbert betrays them, trying to kill Judy and Nick, but they find the original patent for the weather walls, and snakes are welcomed back into Zootopia.

The story really demonstrates how one must look beyond what is obvious, and find what is hidden, even if it means sacrificing how you thought the world was. My favorite character is Nick Wilde, because of his obvious care for Judy, and his rational thought patterns. The voice talent is spot on. There are several main characters that weren’t in the first, as well as the return of many characters we have come to love, such as Chief Bogo, Gazelle, Dawn Bellweather, and Clawhouser (Idris Elba, Shakira, Jennifer Slate, Nate Torrence). The new characters are also very intriguing–Gary, Nibbles, Pawbert Lynxley, and Milton Lynxley (Ke Huy Quan, Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, and David Strathairn).

My favorite part is when Judy and Nick reveal a lot of emotional trauma between themselves in a very sweet way.

The film’s message is about learning to look beyond what is obvious to find what is hidden, physically, mentally and emotionally. Be forewarned that there are some extremely violent scenes, betrayal, and fear.

Zootopia 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It will be released in theaters on November 26, 2025.

Zootopia 2
By Luna C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I was thrilled to dive back into the magical creature world of Zootopia 2, this time exploring the Marsh Market, a vibrant realm dedicated to water animals. I enjoyed seeing Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) step away from his criminal past and absolutely love the new mayor in town. The plot is filled with perfectly balanced twists, a few jump scares, and just the right amount of justice.

This sequel to the beloved Disney animated film picks up only a week after the first movie ends. Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde are navigating their new partnership and trying to prove they’re more than a one-hit duo. Once again, they uncover a long-buried secret within Zootopia, and the discovery sends them into brand-new territories as they work to make their city better for all creatures.

 

I love seeing familiar faces like Flash (Raymond S. Persi) and meeting new characters such as the helpful Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan), who drives much of the plot, and the hilarious and heroic Mayor Winddancer (Patrick Warburton). One of my favorite moments is when Judy and Nick discover the Reptile Ravine. The homes feel truly reptilian, with scale-like textures and long, curved shapes. It feels like a lost world we didn’t get to see in the first movie–because it was buried under the snow! The villainous Lynxly family does not disappoint, and I was excited to see Dawn Bellwether (Jenny Slate), who remains delightfully evil and even escapes from prison… which definitely feels like a hint at Zootopia 3!

 

The film’s message centers around the need to prove you belong. Whether it’s Judy and Nick proving their partnership, or Gary De’Snake showing that snakes aren’t the bad guys, the message of accepting others for who they are shines throughout the film.

Zootopia 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theaters November 26, 2025.