KIDS FIRST! News

In the complex world we navigate today, teaching kids to be critical thinkers and savvy media consumers has never been more vital. At KIDS FIRST!, we’ve embraced this mission for 34 years, and our impact on youth and families is a legacy we cherish. Our alumni consistently tell us the profound difference KIDS FIRST! has made in their lives.

This year, despite the unexpected loss of two major government grants due to recent challenges in Washington, we’ve pivoted with purpose. We’re launching two exciting initiatives to create sustainable, ongoing revenue streams to support our essential KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program and the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival.

A Win-Win for Schools and Future Leaders

We’ve established a groundbreaking partnership with a network of 5,000 Montessori schools nationwide. We’ll collaborate with them to host the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival at their campuses – serving as either a vibrant fundraising event for their school or a special bonus for their families. This is truly a win-win, offering schools a fantastic program while generating vital funds for KIDS FIRST!

With each participating school, we’ll recruit new members for our KIDS FIRST! Film Critic team. These young critics will provide their schoolmates with the latest film and media reviews, fostering media literacy from within their own communities.

Our Urgent Need: Doubling Your Impact

To kick start these powerful initiatives, we urgently need to raise $30,000 in the next 30 days. This is a deeply personal ask. Like many of you, I am profoundly concerned about the future of our country, of our world, and committed to efforts organizations that make a tangible difference.

Right now, your donation to KIDS FIRST! will be matched dollar-for-dollar through August 31st! This is a powerful opportunity to double your impact and fuel a movement that’s building a smarter, more discerning generation.

More Than a Program – It’s a Movement. KIDS FIRST! is about more than just film reviews; it’s about empowering young people. Our team of KIDS FIRST! Film Critics creates their own insightful reviews of the latest films, TV shows, and digital media. These reviews are shared with the public through our social media channels, website, and blogs. We’ve cultivated a vibrant community of young people who:

• Know how to sort disinformation & misinformation from credible information.
• Believe in the positive power of media to create positive change in the world.
• Are passionate about sharing their voices with an ever-growing audience.

If you’ve ever doubted the potential of young people, this program will make you feel incredibly optimistic about the leaders of tomorrow.

Please consider a donation of any amount – no amount is too small!

• Donate or learn more at: https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirst2025
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Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for your invaluable support. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]

Sincerely,

Ranny and the KIDS FIRST! Team

Coming-of-age can be difficult, but is always more bearable when you have someone who connects with you on a cellular level. Shari Lewis – a children’s television pioneer before Fred Rogers, Jim Henson, and others – was one of those people. She was a dancer, singer, and magician, but was best known as the ventriloquist behind sock puppets Charlie Horse, Hush Puppy and, of course, Lamb Chop. This heartfelt and entertaining doc charts the life, loves, and career hits and misses of the spunky perfectionist who forever changed the face of children’s television. Featuring ventriloquists she inspired and nostalgia-laden clips, this upbeat portrait brims, like Lewis, with warmth and charm.  Shari and Lamb Chop is the tonic we all need to reconnect with our inner children, and celebrate pure imagination.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.” See her full review and interview with the director and Shari’s daughter, Mallory below.

Shari & Lamb Chop
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 21

Shari & Lamb Chop is a joyful, nostalgic, and deeply inspiring documentary that honors a true pioneer of children’s entertainment. Director Lisa D’Apolito captures not only Shari Lewis’ incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to television, but also her resilience, creativity, and the heartfelt connection she maintained with generations of children.

This documentary isn’t just a tribute, it’s a celebration of imagination, perseverance, and the enduring magic of storytelling.

What I love most about Shari & Lamb Chop is how it dives beyond the surface of fame to explore the personal journey of a multi-talented performer. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and rare home movies, the film shows how Shari Lewis redefined what it meant to connect with young audiences, on her own terms and in a male-dominated industry. The documentary balances entertainment and emotion in a way that feels honest and unforgettable.

This documentary is a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling and the legacy of pioneers who paved the way for joy and imagination.

The film tells the story of Shari Lewis, a Bronx-born performer who overcame a career-ending dance injury by channeling her creativity into ventriloquism. With her iconic sock puppet Lamb Chop, and other characters like Charlie Horse and Hush Puppy, she rose to national fame as one of the earliest stars in children’s television. The film follows her journey through the highs of early success, the disappointment of cancellation, and her incredible resurgence in the 1990s when she once again captured the hearts of a new generation.

The interviews are a major highlight. Ventriloquists and performers who were inspired by Lewis, as well as her daughter Mallory Lewis, offer touching insights and personal stories.

The archival clips of Shari’s performances are charming and delightful, full of wit, warmth, and timeless energy. One of my favorite parts is seeing Shari backstage, meticulously working on her characters and pushing herself to be better, not for fame, but because she believed in children and what they deserved from entertainment.

The message of this documentary is powerful: women can lead, innovate, and inspire, even in industries that underestimate them.

It also reminds us of the value in treating children as intelligent and imaginative individuals, something Shari Lewis always believed in.

There is no inappropriate content, and it promotes creativity, curiosity, and perseverance, making it perfect for families and classrooms.

I give Shari & Lamb Chop 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults who grew up with Lamb Chop or are discovering her magic for the first time. It opens in theaters on July 18, 2025 and will also be available digitally and on home video.

When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Giana N. comments, “The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by!” Kennedy P. adds, “Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop.” Maica N. adds, “So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken.” See their full reviews below.

Smurfs
Giana N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by. This film is one of a kind and it is not something you would want to miss!

This storyline follows the smurfs who live in Smurf Village and how they go about their  everyday lives – who they are, what they do, and how they portray themselves to the world. Everyone has a thing, except No Name (James Corden). In the midst of finding who he truly is, Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is taken by Razamel (J.P. Karliak) in hopes that he would give him what he needs to take over the world. No Name, Smurfette (Rihanna), and the rest of the smurfs have to go out into the real world to try and save Papa Smurf. In order to stop Razamel and Gargamel, the smurfs need to understand their history and discover what they can accomplish working together.

Papa Smurf (John Goodman), Smurfette (Rihanna) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Something cool and interesting that accompanied this production was a short SpongeBob SquarePants film called Order Up that played before the feature. It is a fun little way to engage the audience before the actual movie and the way they did it was very creative. Another aspect of Smurfs I enjoyed is the musical side. Throughout the film, there are songs that explore deeper details of the characters’ feelings which help the audience relate to the character better and understand their innermost feelings. I particularly enjoyed the song “Always on the Outside.” The comedy is one of the best parts of the movie – the jokes are not only hilarious, but they are understandable by all ages. The use of animation and human characters is also something I appreciate because it is very creative how they incorporate each skill.

The film’s message is that you should never change who you are. During the film, No Name often questions if he has a purpose in this world, and Smurfette never fails to remind him that he is perfect in his own way. That is a message that all ages can benefit from.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12; I highly recommend it for a family-movie night. You can watch this film in theaters starting July 18, 2025. Be sure to check it out.

Smurfs
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Grouchy Smurf (Chris Miller) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop. The film is revamped and re-animated and I love it.

When evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel (JP Karliak) take Papa Smurf (John Goodman), the Smurfs embark on a mission to the real world to save him. With help from some new friends, they must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

The animation is SO cool! It reminds me of the original cartoon but it’s even better, with really bold colors and fun textures that make everything pop.

Smurfette (Rihanna) and No Name (James Corden) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

The way the animation is super stylized makes the whole movie feel like a comic book come to life.  The voice talent is really awesome. John Goodman makes the perfect Papa Smurf; he sounds super wise and kind. Nick Offerman plays Papa’s brother Ken and he’s hilarious, kind of like Ron Swanson but as a Smurf.  Kurt Russell is another brother named Ron, and he totally looks like how you’d imagine a Smurf version of him would.  JP Karliak is clearly having fun while pulling double duty as classic Smurfs baddie Gargamel and Razamel.  Rihanna is so good as Smurfette – her voice is really cool and confident, but also very sweet. She makes Smurfette feel extra fun and strong.  Xolo Mariduena is awesome as Brainy, he makes him sound super smart but also really funny, so you actually like him even when he’s being a know-it-all.  You can totally tell the entire cast put their whole heart into every character as they are all fun and full of personality.

The film’s message is about the importance of family – not just the one you’re born into, but the family you choose. It also reminds us that being different is what makes us special, and when you work together, you can take on anything.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.  Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025.

Smurfs
Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

Mama Poot (Natasha Lyonne), Ken (Nick Offerman), Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever. Smurfs combines captivating music, relatable characters, and a bit of fantasy, creating a nostalgic but fresh experience that fulfilled my expectations.

The new Smurfs movie follows No Name (James Corden) as he tries to find his place within Smurf village. When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is kidnapped by the small, yet power hungry Razamel (JP Karliak), Smurfette (Rihanna) leads No Name and their other smurf friends on a rescue mission through the real world. On their journey, they navigate countless obstacles, testing their character and faith in one another.

Jezebeth (Hannah Waddingham), Asmodius (Octavia Spencer) and Chernobog (Nick Kroll) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Smurfs is a playful and entertaining film that carries a valuable message that viewers young and old can relate to. As a fan of the original Smurfs movies, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new animated version. However, the updated design complements the storyline and keeps viewers engaged. By the end of the upbeat, high-energy opening number, I had already forgotten about the difference in animation. The smurfs’ choreography mirrors real dance moves, demonstrating how the animators utilized the new style to its full potential. Although the film has two prequels, viewers don’t need to watch them to follow the plot. Smurfs provides enough background information and original story elements to stand on its own. The pacing is solid overall, though the ending feels slightly drawn out – but the final group song and dance make it worth the wait. The cast is star-studded, featuring esteemed actors Octavia Spencer and Sandra Oh as Asmodius and Moxie Smurf, with Rihanna and James Corden adding impressive vocals that help maintain the film’s lively tone.

The film’s message is that you do not have to conform to something you aren’t just to fit into a crowd – who you truly are, will shine through naturally. No Name is constantly trying new things to find a sense of belonging with his smurf friends who have already found their identities. However, he eventually realizes that his true identity was within him the entire time.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find Smurfs in theaters on July 18, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Smurfs
Mikella G, KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 19

Jaunty (Amy Sedaris) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

I really like Smurfs! It is a fun comedic movie that is enjoyable and nostalgic as well. Even though it caters to younger kids, I grew up watching the Smurf movies, so getting to dive back into that world was a fun experience. The storyline is definitely interesting, and kept my attention the entire time.

murfs takes us back to the fun and joyous smurf village where all the smurfs that we know and love are living happily. However, there is one smurf named “No Name” (James Corden), who doesn’t have a name yet because he is struggling to find his purpose and natural talent. He eventually discovers his power of magic, but unfortunately this power becomes too strong, causing him to uncover a whole world that Papa Smurf (John Goodman) had been hiding from the rest of them. When Papa Surf is captured by the evil wizards, the rest of the smurfs must go on an adventure to the real world, in order to not only save him, but their home as they know it.

Mama Poot (Natasha Lyonne), Ken (Nick Offerman), Hefty Smurf (Alex Winter) and Vanity Smurf (Maya Erskine) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Something that I really enjoyed is this wild storyline. There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken. This really helped keep my attention span. The movie went by really fast for me. That is something very important, especially for a film catered toward children, because their attention span can be short. It’s easy for kids to get bored or distracted. This film is the perfect length – 92 minutes – and is filled with plenty of entertainment. There are quite a few large dance numbers that I was highly impressed by. Each smurf does a complex dance that is so clean and detailed — every movement is very specific, and these truly caught my eye. It’s as if they are real dancers executing these movements. Another standout is the animation. I’ve never seen an animation quite like this before, especially with such clarity and precision. Plus, the colors and backgrounds in smurf village are so vibrant and pretty. The sky is the perfect blue, and the flowers represent every color in the rainbow. They really bring this world to life, and create a place that even I want to visit! This matches perfectly with the smurfs’ energy and happiness. Lastly, all the music matches the vibe and energy of the film. Specifically, there is one scene where the smurfs enter a nightclub, and an upbeat Rihanna song starts to play. The single that Rihanna wrote for the film titled, “Friend Of Mine” is so much fun, and completely elevates the energy of the movie.

The film’s message is to never give up on yourself and those you love.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025.

Zed and Addison discover the warring worlds of Sunnyside and Shadyside on a summer road trip after their first year of college, encountering two new groups of monsters.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I absolutely love Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires – it takes things to a whole new level with the arrival of mysterious vampires and daywalkers, challenging the community to once again embrace unity and acceptance. It’s packed with catchy songs, incredible new characters, and powerful messages about being true to yourself. This is one of my favorite Zombies movies.” See her full review below.

Zombies 4: Dawn Of The Vampires
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, Age 11

I absolutely love Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires – it takes things to a whole new level with the arrival of mysterious vampires and daywalkers, challenging the community to once again embrace unity and acceptance.

It’s packed with catchy songs, incredible new characters, and powerful messages about being true to yourself. This is one of my favorite Zombies movies.

The story follows Zed (Milo Manheim) and Addison (Meg Donnelly) as their summer road trip takes an unexpected turn, landing them at a summer camp caught between two rival monster groups: the daywalkers and the vampires. Tensions flare as the groups clash and Zed and Addison, along with their friends Eliza (Kylee Russell) and Willa (Chandler Kinney), become counselors in an effort to bring peace. They must convince the daywalker leader, Nova (Freya Skye), and the vampire leader, Victor (Malachi Barton), to unite their worlds to prevent an even greater threat from endangering everyone. This film continues the franchise’s theme of overcoming differences and promoting unity, this time focusing on the conflict and eventual harmony between daywalkers and vampires.

This film is a visually stunning and emotionally charged new chapter in the Zombies franchise, delivering everything fans love and more. It introduces an exciting new group of characters, daywalkers, led by the fierce and magnetic Nova and the vampires led by the charismatic Victor. Returning favorites like Addison, Zed, Willa, Eliza and other beloved cast members continue to shine, balancing heartfelt moments with high-energy performances. The chemistry among the cast, both new and returning, is electric, and the musical numbers are bigger and bolder than ever, with choreography that brings the supernatural storyline to life. Filmed in beautiful locations with moody, gothic set designs that contrast Seabrook’s bright, colorful world, Zombies 4 is a visual treat. The movie blends action, humor, and emotion seamlessly while delivering powerful themes about identity, inclusion, and the strength that comes from embracing differences. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish and a standout addition to the series.

This film teaches us about acceptance, identity, and unity. With all the characters we are reminded that our differences, whether cultural, personal, or even supernatural should be embraced, not feared. These stories break through barriers of prejudice and show how understanding and friendship can truly change the world.  They remind us to stand up for what’s right; celebrate what makes us unique, and lead with kindness.

I give Zombies 4: Dawn Of The Vampires 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18 plus adults.  You can watch Zombies 4: Dawn Of The Vampires Disney Channel on July 10, 2025 and Disney Plus beginning July 11, 2025.

Superman, DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Isabella V. comments, “Superman is a visually stunning and incredibly entertaining movie with great world-building and an investing story. With a fantastic cast of characters supported by amazing performances, there’s never a dull moment in this movie.” Carter P. adds, “The new Superman movie captivated me with its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and a fresh, yet faithful, take on the iconic hero that renewed my love for the character.” Spencer C. adds, “I love the film Superman because it is so funny, and full of action. I also love that there are so many sub-plots to follow and they all come together at the end.” Avani M. adds, “Superman is a great superhero movie with a cute dog and beautiful storyline. I love the movie and including Superdog Krypto sealed the deal! I love the mix between action, drama and comedy.” Leo G. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is that being human is not where you are from, it is who you are on the inside, and no one can define it for you. You have to believe in yourself and the good you bring to the world.” Valerie M. comments, “I love the new Superman! It has such a compelling story that kept me at the edge of my seat. I also really love how the story is brought to life with the help of special effects.”  See their full reviews below.

Superman
By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Superman is a visually stunning and incredibly entertaining movie with great worldbuilding and an investing story. With a fantastic cast of characters supported by amazing performances, there’s never a dull moment in this movie.

The storyline follows Superman (David Corenswet) as he deals with being both a Kryptonian alien and living as Clark Kent on Earth his whole life. He soon finds that what he stands for, truth and justice for all, is questioned by humanity and is taken advantage of by billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult).

The CGI in this movie is impeccable, from animals to locations, everything looks so realistic and magical allowing nothing to feel as if it stands out, leaving for an immersive experience. For example, the Fortress of Solitude, the place where Superman resigns, fits extremely well into the surrounding environment of the Arctic.

The fighting is also outstandingly well choreographed and very entertaining – all the stunts feel unique and take advantage of the characters’ abilities such as Superman’s ability to fly and shoot laser eyes. Speaking of which, the characters are unbelievably well written and fit perfectly into the plot. Every character exceeds in their attributes, whether it’s the antagonist Lex Luther or Superman, they all feel like real people. The story is also easily understandable to someone like me, who’s never seen anything Superman related. I found the plot points all well explained while not feeling forced. The movie also has remarkable jokes and comedic timing by the cast. There are so many good laughs throughout the film whether from visual gags or spoken lines while not taking away from more serious moments. The music, by David Fleming and John Murphy, gives a grander feeling to fight sequences or sadder feelings to more heartwarming scenes. The music is also astonishingly catchy and nice to listen to on its own. My favorite part has to be the costuming, specifically for the heroes. Everything is so detailed; you can tell that so much thought went into the designs, from the theming to their functionality. I especially enjoyed the hawk girl’s superhero costume.

The film’s message is to appreciate the life you’ve lived and those who’ve supported you through it. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, smoking, and some intense bloody scenes.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

The new Superman movie captivated me with its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and a fresh, yet faithful, take on the iconic hero that renewed my love for the character.

The storyline reimagines Clark Kent’s (David Corenswet) journey with a perfect balance of heart, heroism, and humanity. It explores his struggle to find his place in a divided world while staying true to his values and protecting those he loves. When Superman gets drawn into conflicts at home and abroad, his actions are questioned, giving tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) the opportunity to get the Man of Steel out of the way for good. Will Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and Superman’s four-legged companion, Krypto, be able to help him before it’s too late?

Superman delivers a bold and emotionally take on the Man of Steel, blending storytelling with epic superhero spectacle. The film blends intense action with deeply emotional moments, showing not just Superman’s strength but his compassion and vulnerability. The powerful performances, stunning visuals, and a story grounded in hope makes it an unforgettable experience.  David Corenswet is the perfect Superman; he radiates hope, strength, and heroism.  Rachel Brosnahan shines as a sharp, fearless Lois Lane with real chemistry that anchors the film. The supporting cast – Nathan Fillion as a witty Green Lantern, Isabela Merced as a fierce Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi as the brilliant Mister Terrific – adds energy to every scene they appear in. Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is terrifying and brilliant.  Standout scenes like Superman’s emotional heart-to-heart with Pa Kent, and the final showdown with a twisted clone showcase the film’s range from high-stakes action to quiet and powerful moments.  Director James Gunn crafts a movie using warmth, wit, and stunning visuals to redefine Superman for a new generation.

The film’s message is that true strength lies not just in power, but in compassion, integrity, and the courage to do what’s right even when the world doubts you. It emphasizes the importance of hope, belonging, and choosing kindness in a divided and often cynical world. At its core, the film reminds us that being a hero starts with staying true to your values.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can see Superman in theaters beginning July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Spencer C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I love the film Superman because it is so funny, and full of action. I also love that there are so many sub-plots to follow and they all come together at the end.

The storyline follows the super-hero called Superman (David Corenswet), who is from the planet Krypton. He has to fight battles, save humans, and prove that he is a good person. No one knows his real identity or that he is also Clark Kent. Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) tells the world that Superman is here to rule, not help, by exposing a message from his parents. Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) is Superman’s girlfriend, and has to persevere through challenges to help save her boyfriend.

The acting stands out and the set is amazing. I could tell they were going for a very cold snowy place at the beginning of the movie, and the ice palace coming out from the ground looks super realistic. I believe that David Corenswet was made to play the role of Superman – he brings this role to life and really shows Superman’s various emotions.  My favorite character is the dog Krypto, Superman’s best bud. He is inspired by the director James Gunn’s dog. My favorite part in the movie is when Superman says, “Krypto, get the toy,” and he starts chewing up every robot!

The film’s message is that kindness prevails over everything. Be aware that there is a lot of violence and some bad language in the film.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on Friday, July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Leo Gutierrez, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I enjoyed Superman because it is funny, has great cinematography, and the actors are very good.

The storyline follows the beloved character, Superman (David Corenswet), who grapples with what it means to be an alien while also feeling like a human. He battles against the evil plots of Lex Luther (Nicholas Hoult). At the same time, he works on his relationships with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and his poorly behaved dog, Krypto.

David Corenswet makes an amazing Superman – not only does he look like the Superman we all know and love from the comics, he also plays a strong but sensitive and loving man perfectly.

Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is a modern take on the character, and in a good way. In this film, Lois Lane is a more independent woman than in prior versions of Superman, but she still feels like Lois Lane and I like the new twist to her character. This movie not only has awesome characters but the cinematography is amazing. The lighting is used in very interesting ways; there are subtle changes that reflect Superman’s feelings.  For example, when Superman doubts himself the most, he is in a dark place not only emotionally but visually as well. However, during an interaction with Lex Luther, when Superman’s faith in his own humanity peaks, so much light fills the space that you cannot help but feel happiness for Superman. The viewer also feels happiness throughout many comedic moments in the movie. Krypto, the dog, provides a lot of laughs with his rambunctious behavior. And, a group of meta-humans, referred to as the Justice Gang and led by an unheroic Green Lantern called Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), shows up throughout the movie and keep the audience laughing.

The film’s message is that being human is not where you are from, it is who you are on the inside, and no one can define it for you. You have to believe in yourself and the good you bring to the world.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters starting July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I love the new Superman! It has such a compelling story that kept me at the edge of my seat. I also really love how the story is brought to life with the help of special effects.

The storyline is about Superman (David Corenswet) being under fire after getting involved in international affairs. When Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) supposedly retrieves the missing second half of the message from his biological parents which instructs Superman to take over the human world, the public goes completely against him. Superman now has to prove he is the kind of person he said he was.

This film really makes you think about everyone’s actions.

Superman himself makes mistakes, yet the story shows that what makes him a hero and a human is what he sets out to do. Lex Luthor is truly my new favorite movie villain. His motivations are clear. He is cold and calculating. He will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He lies to the public and gets rid of anyone who gets in his way. The ending really just brings this home. But he has layers and intentions that make you think from time to time that maybe he is trying to help. This movie also brings an interesting take on politics and how social media can affect public perception. People don’t question the message shared by Lex Luthor and don’t hold back on attacking Superman. The film makes you question Superman’s actions. Were they really justified? Should he have done the things he did? He makes mistakes and fails multiple times. When he realizes that this is what makes him human it gives him strength and he prevails. I also adore Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). You can really see her personality and determination in this movie. She doesn’t immediately go praising Superman in her interview, even though they’re secretly dating. When he disappears, she sets out to find him with the help of others. She will stop at nothing to make sure the people she cares for are safe. I love that she plays an important role in this story.

The film’s message is that to be human is to make mistakes but also a reminder to wish for the good of others. Be aware that there is some profanity, making out, lots of fighting and even death, but nothing is bloody or gory.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in  theaters on July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Superman is a great superhero movie with a cute dog and beautiful storyline. I love the movie and including Superdog Krypto sealed the deal! I love the mix between action, drama and comedy.

The story follows Superman (David Corenswet) and his journey of fighting villains while hiding behind his alter ego, reporter Clark Kent. He struggles when a video from his parents is exposed and the world starts to turn on him. Despite all the hate, he works hard to fight the villain, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) while Lex comes up with different ways to cause chaos in Metropolis.

One setting that really stands out to me is Superman’s Fortress of Solitude which we sometimes see when Superman goes into his fortress. The visual effects artists put so much amazing and beautiful detail into it, I wish I could be there. With big shoes to fill, David Corenswet is a great Superman. After being lost and hurt, I can feel the rebuilding of his confidence when he starts believing in himself again. I also feel his fear when he finds out he is not what his parents wanted him to be. Despite being naughty at times, Superdog Krypto provides so much cuteness and we feel how deeply Superman loves him.

Nicholas Hoult portrays Lex Luthor’s anger and envy in such a way that it makes me mad. He is very animated and articulate, and uses his facial expressions very well. Rachel Brosnahan lives up to the image of the strong reporter Lois Lane and challenges Superman as a reporter while still staying true to her love for him. Neva Howell and Pruitt Taylor Vince play Ma and Pa Kent respectively as such loving and caring parents. They give some of the best performances in the movie. Skyler Gisondo and Sara Sampaio play Jimmy and Eve with great comedic relief, both of which are important characters to the plot.

There are many messages here. One is that your choices and your actions are what make you who you are. We are also reminded to stay close and true to our values. Once Superman finds out he is not what his birth parents expect him to be, he still stays true to his values and keeps doing good. Another message is that being human is waking up and trying your best. You may make mistakes along the way, but that’s how you learn. It reminds us that we are not always perfect and that it is okay to not be the best at everything. Be aware that there is some profanity used and some creatures and scenes might be scary for younger audiences.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 11, 2025.