The Ages 12-18 category has 4698 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles

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GREAT UNCLE'S EARTHENWARE JAR

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GREAT UNCLE'S EARTHENWARE JAR
WEN-YUAN HSIEH
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic -
Description - Two children, Cherry and Burger, grew up in a third-generation pottery family. Their home was filled with pottery, clay, kilns, urns, and other artifacts that exuded handmade warmth. Cherry and Burger played hide-and-seek in the large kiln yard and splashed around in the ditches by the fields. They also watered the flowers, snails, and grass near the temple with water guns. They have made a big clay cup for the temple god so he wouldn't be thirsty.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I like Great Uncle's Earthenware Jar because it is a really great educational film and it can teach children a new language also.

This short documentary from Taiwan film follows Cherry and Burger, two kids who grew up in a family that makes traditional pottery. Their home is filled with lots of pottery. We are shown all around their home and what they do on a daily basis, including how they make pottery. The camera work in this film is great and is clear. I like how the pace of this film develops. I really like how there are interactive things included in the storyline for children to do as well as allowing them to learn a new language. Cherry and Berry's home is really cool. It is filled with traditional pottery that looks really cool. The landscape that surrounds their home is quite beautiful. My favorite part is when Cherry and Burger water the plant and say that they're doing it for their great uncle.

The film's message is to learn about your culture, including the language, traditions and more.

I give Great Uncle's Earthenware Jar 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Hafsa H., KIDS FIRST
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I like Great Uncle's Earthenware Jar because it is a really great educational film and it can teach children a new language also.

This short documentary from Taiwan film follows Cherry and Burger, two kids who grew up in a family that makes traditional pottery. Their home is filled with lots of pottery. We are shown all around their home and what they do on a daily basis, including how they make pottery. The camera work in this film is great and is clear. I like how the pace of this film develops. I really like how there are interactive things included in the storyline for children to do as well as allowing them to learn a new language. Cherry and Berry's home is really cool. It is filled with traditional pottery that looks really cool. The landscape that surrounds their home is quite beautiful. My favorite part is when Cherry and Burger water the plant and say that they're doing it for their great uncle.

The film's message is to learn about your culture, including the language, traditions and more.

I give Great Uncle's Earthenware Jar 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Hafsa H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 11 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LET’S COSPLAY!

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LET�S COSPLAY!
WEN-YUAN HSIEH
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic -
Description - Three girls, Bao-bao, Little Q, and Lao-liu, enthusiastic about ACGNC (anime, comics, games, novels, and cosplay) culture, are invited by the production team to an unfamiliar classroom. What awaits them are professional makeup artists and famous cosplayers. They will assist the girls to transform into their beloved ACGNC characters. Through hairstyling, costume changes, and the challenges of wearing contact lenses for the first time, they experience the difficulties of cosplaying and a complete surprise and setback of the transformation of their appearances.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Let's Cosplay! is brilliant - offering an unbiased analysis of ACGNC (anime, comics, games, novels, cosplay) culture while highlighting positive and negative views of such a fan base.

The film is a 25-minute documentary that centers on a trio of women (Bao-bao, Little Q, Lao-liu), who happen to be invested in ACGNC themselves. They are tasked with interviewing fans of this culture at Anime Creator Expo. With the assistance of two Internet-famous cosplayers (Tsun and Chihiro), they get to live out the experience of starring in their own cosplay photo shoots. This film is from Taiwan and the dialogue is in Chinese with English subtitles.

Well produced with good, clear camera work, clear audio recording and well edited. Despite the relatively short duration of the film, it manages to dedicate a sufficient amount of time to how ACGNC plays a part in Bao-bao, Little Q and Lao-liu's life and the two tasks which they complete. The film juxtaposes the fantastical nature of dressing up as fictional characters with the reality of ACGNC fans being misunderstood and disliked by the outside world. It gives the audience an inside view of what's involved in this culture, which is something I really appreciate. The animated segments that bookend the beginning and end of the film possess a weird "randomness factor" to them, but in a way that is masterfully crafted and could act as an eye-pleaser to the audience. Given that the film's primary focus is centered on cosplay, the costumes themselves are an important part. From my brief research, the Cosplay are both faithful to their source material and well-constructed. It helps that both Tsun and Chihiro have years of experience in cosplay work under their belt, which makes the end result even more impressive. My favorite parts are the interviews, as they perfectly capture numerous aspects of the ACGNC community without mocking or disparaging their interests. Rather, it celebrates these individuals and offers a point-of-view that audiences can actively learn from.

The film's message is to follow your own interests, no matter what other people think.

I give Let's Cosplay 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Let's Cosplay! is brilliant - offering an unbiased analysis of ACGNC (anime, comics, games, novels, cosplay) culture while highlighting positive and negative views of such a fan base.

The film is a 25-minute documentary that centers on a trio of women (Bao-bao, Little Q, Lao-liu), who happen to be invested in ACGNC themselves. They are tasked with interviewing fans of this culture at Anime Creator Expo. With the assistance of two Internet-famous cosplayers (Tsun and Chihiro), they get to live out the experience of starring in their own cosplay photo shoots. This film is from Taiwan and the dialogue is in Chinese with English subtitles.

Well produced with good, clear camera work, clear audio recording and well edited. Despite the relatively short duration of the film, it manages to dedicate a sufficient amount of time to how ACGNC plays a part in Bao-bao, Little Q and Lao-liu's life and the two tasks which they complete. The film juxtaposes the fantastical nature of dressing up as fictional characters with the reality of ACGNC fans being misunderstood and disliked by the outside world. It gives the audience an inside view of what's involved in this culture, which is something I really appreciate. The animated segments that bookend the beginning and end of the film possess a weird "randomness factor" to them, but in a way that is masterfully crafted and could act as an eye-pleaser to the audience. Given that the film's primary focus is centered on cosplay, the costumes themselves are an important part. From my brief research, the Cosplay are both faithful to their source material and well-constructed. It helps that both Tsun and Chihiro have years of experience in cosplay work under their belt, which makes the end result even more impressive. My favorite parts are the interviews, as they perfectly capture numerous aspects of the ACGNC community without mocking or disparaging their interests. Rather, it celebrates these individuals and offers a point-of-view that audiences can actively learn from.

The film's message is to follow your own interests, no matter what other people think.

I give Let's Cosplay 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 25 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LIE OF THE MOUNTAIN GOD, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LIE OF THE MOUNTAIN GOD, THE
IRIS SUN
Series: FOREIGN COLLEGE STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic -
Description - Eight-year-old boy Lin Qikong, gifted with a unique vision, faces rejection and criticism from the people in his village. Determined to prove that what he sees and says is real, young Lin decides to spend his summer searching for the mountain spirit. However, his quest soon leads to a series of troubles for both himself and his grandmother.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Lie Of The Mountain God is a great short film that had me engaged in the story about young Lin from the very first scene. I enjoyed the search for the Mountain God and the love between the boy and his grandmother.

The storyline follows a young boy, Qikong Lin (Yian Liu), who has visions of the Mountain God that he cannot explain or prove to anyone. He feels alienated and crazy and decides to search for the Mountain God himself. His grandmother (Baoqing Li) tries to help him with all of the troubles caused by his belief in the Mountain God, but eventually she reaches her breaking point. After some local boys pull a prank on Lin where he gets hurt, his grandmother has a change of heart and helps him figure it out. The film is from China with dialogue in Chinese and English sub-titles.

The film's storyline is beautiful as it shows a kid trying to search for something that people in his village don't think is real; some people doubt him and start to label him crazy. While this film is only 15 minutes long, the story develops quickly and made me feel engrossed. It both gave me time to comprehend the story and time flew by.

Yian Liu, who plays the central character Qikong Lin, makes the story both fun and suspenseful, which is remarkable since he is so young. Baoqing Li's portrayal of the grandmother is also outstanding. She changes from a serious and stern character into a loving, accepting, and fun one by the end of the film. I like when the two bullies, Hu Hu (Andi Yang) and Wen Zi (Junran Zhang), show their fear when the Mountain God appears. There are many shots that impressed me such as the scene where Lin is on the road near the field where the scarecrow is found. I like the closeup scene on the mountain that captures an ant crawling on a stem of a plant- it really sets the scene and makes it clear that this is a remote and quiet hillside. I also like the ending shot at the tree - where both Lin and his grandmother seemed to be tilted in different directions. The mountain scenes are very cool and striking. The camera work combines closeups, mid-range shots, and zoomed-out shots that really made me feel like I was there. The background music allows the story to speak for itself most of the time. When we get to the mountain, the sounds of nature and birds really helped make me feel as if I was in the scene. Also, when Lin first sees the Mountain God, the sound creates a good amount of suspense. And, when Lin starts to feel like he is going crazy, the repeating intensity of noise along with his words brings home the feeling he is going through. I have to commend the director for getting me engaged in the story quickly and in creating short scenes that keep the storyline moving while making sure to hit the key story elements. My favorite part is when Lin's grandmother dresses up like the Mountain God in order to scare off the village bullies. I especially like when Lin calls his grandmother out and says he knows it is her. From there, she takes off her mask and helps Lin understand that not everyone is lucky enough to see all of the magic of the world. This helps him know he is not alone or crazy.

The film's message is to always believe in yourself and that it is always good to have family by your side. Be forewarned that it does show kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. There are suspenseful themes that are inappropriate for younger children. When Lin goes to the mountain alone and gets hurt, we see him bleed a bit.

I give The Lie Of The Mountain God 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Lie Of The Mountain God is a great short film that had me engaged in the story about young Lin from the very first scene. I enjoyed the search for the Mountain God and the love between the boy and his grandmother.

The storyline follows a young boy, Qikong Lin (Yian Liu), who has visions of the Mountain God that he cannot explain or prove to anyone. He feels alienated and crazy and decides to search for the Mountain God himself. His grandmother (Baoqing Li) tries to help him with all of the troubles caused by his belief in the Mountain God, but eventually she reaches her breaking point. After some local boys pull a prank on Lin where he gets hurt, his grandmother has a change of heart and helps him figure it out. The film is from China with dialogue in Chinese and English sub-titles.

The film's storyline is beautiful as it shows a kid trying to search for something that people in his village don't think is real; some people doubt him and start to label him crazy. While this film is only 15 minutes long, the story develops quickly and made me feel engrossed. It both gave me time to comprehend the story and time flew by.

Yian Liu, who plays the central character Qikong Lin, makes the story both fun and suspenseful, which is remarkable since he is so young. Baoqing Li's portrayal of the grandmother is also outstanding. She changes from a serious and stern character into a loving, accepting, and fun one by the end of the film. I like when the two bullies, Hu Hu (Andi Yang) and Wen Zi (Junran Zhang), show their fear when the Mountain God appears. There are many shots that impressed me such as the scene where Lin is on the road near the field where the scarecrow is found. I like the closeup scene on the mountain that captures an ant crawling on a stem of a plant- it really sets the scene and makes it clear that this is a remote and quiet hillside. I also like the ending shot at the tree - where both Lin and his grandmother seemed to be tilted in different directions. The mountain scenes are very cool and striking. The camera work combines closeups, mid-range shots, and zoomed-out shots that really made me feel like I was there. The background music allows the story to speak for itself most of the time. When we get to the mountain, the sounds of nature and birds really helped make me feel as if I was in the scene. Also, when Lin first sees the Mountain God, the sound creates a good amount of suspense. And, when Lin starts to feel like he is going crazy, the repeating intensity of noise along with his words brings home the feeling he is going through. I have to commend the director for getting me engaged in the story quickly and in creating short scenes that keep the storyline moving while making sure to hit the key story elements. My favorite part is when Lin's grandmother dresses up like the Mountain God in order to scare off the village bullies. I especially like when Lin calls his grandmother out and says he knows it is her. From there, she takes off her mask and helps Lin understand that not everyone is lucky enough to see all of the magic of the world. This helps him know he is not alone or crazy.

The film's message is to always believe in yourself and that it is always good to have family by your side. Be forewarned that it does show kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. There are suspenseful themes that are inappropriate for younger children. When Lin goes to the mountain alone and gets hurt, we see him bleed a bit.

I give The Lie Of The Mountain God 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


GHOST'S BEST FRIEND, A

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GHOST'S BEST FRIEND, A
CONRAD PAUR
Series: ELEMENTARY STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic -
Description - Three friends are forced to break into a school to search of their friend's past dog who may be haunting the school, what they find is more surprising then anyone expected.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A Ghost's Best Friend has a unique storyline, very good animation and special effects.

The storyline of this student film, by elementary school students, is about a boy named Deacon (Taavi Dinh) whose dog Sarge passed away, and Deacon never got a chance to say goodbye. He decides to visit a school with his friends Jack (Caleb Samuelson) and Emerie (Luna Lopez) where he thought he "heard" his dog. At the school, they discover ghosts who ultimately help him figure out what happened to his dog.

Another wonderful production from Rad Geekery. I love that this film is made by elementary school students who take on all the heavy work - filming, sound, lighting, gaffing, and make-up. The most interesting part of the plot is when Deacon realizes that a large scary dragon is actually his deceased dog, Sarge. The plot develops very quickly since the film is only six minutes long. What I love the most about the film is seeing the boy get closure at the end. Deacon, Jack, and Emerie are the group of friends that visit the school together. They carry themselves quite well. The camera work is adequate; it's clear, although not too original. I really like the background music because it is very harmonic and suits the plot well. For example, when they are trying to break into the school, the music becomes very mysterious. At times the volume of the music sort of overshadows the dialogue. There are multiple special effects including the girls that are transparent ghosts, the dragon, and the fire, all of which are very realistic looking. My favorite part is the ending when Deacon talks to the dragon and says his good-byes. It is very moving. I love the animation at the end, under the credits.

The film reminds us to take advantage of the moments we have with our loved ones because they could be gone in a minute. We all need a chance to say goodbye to our loved ones, whether it's a dog or a person.

I give A Ghost's Best Friend 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Arya B. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - A Ghost's Best Friend has a unique storyline, very good animation and special effects.

The storyline of this student film, by elementary school students, is about a boy named Deacon (Taavi Dinh) whose dog Sarge passed away, and Deacon never got a chance to say goodbye. He decides to visit a school with his friends Jack (Caleb Samuelson) and Emerie (Luna Lopez) where he thought he "heard" his dog. At the school, they discover ghosts who ultimately help him figure out what happened to his dog.

Another wonderful production from Rad Geekery. I love that this film is made by elementary school students who take on all the heavy work - filming, sound, lighting, gaffing, and make-up. The most interesting part of the plot is when Deacon realizes that a large scary dragon is actually his deceased dog, Sarge. The plot develops very quickly since the film is only six minutes long. What I love the most about the film is seeing the boy get closure at the end. Deacon, Jack, and Emerie are the group of friends that visit the school together. They carry themselves quite well. The camera work is adequate; it's clear, although not too original. I really like the background music because it is very harmonic and suits the plot well. For example, when they are trying to break into the school, the music becomes very mysterious. At times the volume of the music sort of overshadows the dialogue. There are multiple special effects including the girls that are transparent ghosts, the dragon, and the fire, all of which are very realistic looking. My favorite part is the ending when Deacon talks to the dragon and says his good-byes. It is very moving. I love the animation at the end, under the credits.

The film reminds us to take advantage of the moments we have with our loved ones because they could be gone in a minute. We all need a chance to say goodbye to our loved ones, whether it's a dog or a person.

I give A Ghost's Best Friend 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Arya B. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


THIS TIME ROUND

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
THIS TIME ROUND
FRANCISCO J. N��EZ
Series: INDIE FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic -
Description - Amidst the backdrop of a pandemic-stricken New York City, witness the unwavering passion and determination of a youth chorus as they strive to keep their art alive against all odds. Through poignant storytelling and original music from key contemporary composers, this documentary captures the resilience, creativity, and indomitable spirit of a generation of young musicians, navigating through unprecedented times, proving that even in the darkest moments, music has the power to unite, heal, and inspire.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This Time Round is an extraordinary collection of choral compositions sung by the Young People's Chorus of NYC during the COVID pandemic. The film follows the emotional journeys of students, their parents and teachers, who rehearsed their vocals on zoom calls. Students tell their personal stories from their isolation at home, sometimes not knowing if their care-taking parents would come home from work that night. The most magnificent thing about this film is the choral compositions that underscore the film.

As an educator, composer and filmmaker myself, I was surprised that This Time Round is underscored primarily with a children's choir and that the compositions were written for the Young People's Chorus of New York City during the pandemic. Not only is the music haunting and sweet, but the cinematography is intimate and beautifully captures the emotions of the cast, often without narration. The interviews with composers and students reveal how they grieve for their circumstances and long for friends, family and the community that they seem to have lost. But the story takes many turns and, through the sadness, the joy, and the chaos, a resilience of human spirit shines throughout. Children experienced the pandemic will certainly relate to this film. A yearning is evoked from the songs and the cinematographer's images, thus, the audience will be pulled into these elements as it weaves together sounds and images.

The pace is slow, yet engaging. As kids speak of their experiences, there is a grounding that makes the unusual structure enjoyable. It's formatted in chapters, each about a song's length in time. This short format works well for the zoom singers! Anyone who experienced the pandemic will understand the film's intent. The sophistication of the music will undoubtedly have an effect on the audience, and I imagine that its suitability will be entirely subjective, based on personal musical tastes and how connected viewers feel about their personal pandemic experiences. The scenes are from everyday life -- natural flowing images while walking down the street, waiting under the portal, hiding out behind a wall, and similar. There are no sets except for some interviews. The stories are vivid and raw and the direction from Sawyer and Nunez enriches the storytelling from this time in their lives. Fifteen composers were commissioned for this film and this is an assemblage of masterpieces. Note that the chapters are based on compositions and only a simple title page is shown between chapters, such as "One Year Later."

This Time Round exposes its audience to choir music, which is a rare thing in this age of pop music and fast, frenzied musical scores interspersed with sound effects. Choral music contributes and expands a child's education, although there is research showing that people tend to only like the music that they have heard and are used to. The impact of the pandemic on children's mental health should not be underestimated and music is one of the most powerful ways in which we can bring healing and solace to each other in our chaotic and stressful world.

I give This Time Round 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - see adult comments

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


NAGYDOBRONY STORY, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
NAGYDOBRONY STORY, THE
ANDRAS SZLANKO
Series: FOREIGN STUDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 12-18
Topic -
Description - Among the touching stories, the most touching are those about orphaned children, for whom life has become a hard test at an early age. These children are searching for the path to adulthood in the footsteps of their lost loved ones, and deep in their souls there is a desire to find their place in the world and to be able to find love and a safe place again. This film is about a Transcarpathian girls' home, we get to know the volunteers, the children and the personal stories that connect them to Nagydobrony. The story also reminds us that real family is made up of those who are there when we need them the most.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - As an adult I found The Nagydobrony Story appealing because, even though I grew up with a loving family, this film shows kids who have found love at a girls' home after being orphaned at an early age. It is a really heartwarming story.

The high school student film explores the lives and experiences of children who have been orphaned and now live at a Transcarpathian Girls' Home. We meet two of the volunteers who tell us why they enjoy volunteering here. Then we meet a girl who grew up there and she tells us about her experience losing her family but gaining a new one. This film is from Hungary with the dialogue in Hungarian with English subtitles.

This documentary flows well and makes a lot of sense. I liked learning about the girls' home from the point of view of the volunteers and a girl, Natalia, who grew up there. Although we see the children happy, they talk about the struggles they have gone through before finally finding their place. The story really drew me in and I was quite empathetic with the girls. The camera work is good, as is the editing. The audio levels are a bit inconsistent and I had to adjust the volume as I watched it. The one shortcoming for me is that, although we see a lot of still photos of the kids at the home, none of them speak on camera except for Natalia, who grew up there. It definitely gives us a look at these young people as we learn about their experiences through the eyes of the volunteers and one former participant. We do learn about the impact working there makes on the volunteers and it teaches us a bit about Hungarian culture.

The film's message is that family isn't necessarily limited to those we are related to, it can be made up of those who love and care for you.

I give The Nagydobrony Story 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - As an adult I found The Nagydobrony Story appealing because, even though I grew up with a loving family, this film shows kids who have found love at a girls' home after being orphaned at an early age. It is a really heartwarming story.

The high school student film explores the lives and experiences of children who have been orphaned and now live at a Transcarpathian Girls' Home. We meet two of the volunteers who tell us why they enjoy volunteering here. Then we meet a girl who grew up there and she tells us about her experience losing her family but gaining a new one. This film is from Hungary with the dialogue in Hungarian with English subtitles.

This documentary flows well and makes a lot of sense. I liked learning about the girls' home from the point of view of the volunteers and a girl, Natalia, who grew up there. Although we see the children happy, they talk about the struggles they have gone through before finally finding their place. The story really drew me in and I was quite empathetic with the girls. The camera work is good, as is the editing. The audio levels are a bit inconsistent and I had to adjust the volume as I watched it. The one shortcoming for me is that, although we see a lot of still photos of the kids at the home, none of them speak on camera except for Natalia, who grew up there. It definitely gives us a look at these young people as we learn about their experiences through the eyes of the volunteers and one former participant. We do learn about the impact working there makes on the volunteers and it teaches us a bit about Hungarian culture.

The film's message is that family isn't necessarily limited to those we are related to, it can be made up of those who love and care for you.

I give The Nagydobrony Story 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


MINNOW: THE HEMP CLOTH LOVER

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MINNOW: THE HEMP CLOTH LOVER
SEOJIN KIM
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic -
Description - One day, a minnow jumps out of his home, a little stream, completely charmed with the strange golden hair. While following after the missing golden hair, he receives a lot of help from various goblins in the village and finally finds out what the golden hair really is.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A Minnow: The Hemp Cloth Lover is a rather magical story, beautifully animated.

The film follows a minnow that lives in a small stream and sees a tress of what appears to be golden hair floating in the water. Curiosity causes the minnow to investigate and follow it. The minnow follows the tresses in a fun and pioneering adventure. This film is from Korea, with dialogue in Korean and English subtitles. It is a stop-motion animation filmed at Geumso Village - a beautiful place famous for its exceptionally fine hemp cloth.

This is a beautifully animated film; its visual elements are quite stunning and the storyline is unique, giving homage to traditional hemp weaving in this village. Through the minnow's curiosity, we learn how the cloth is made. Minnow has a charming personality and I like how curiosity drives him on an adventure. The bright background music enhances the film in a fun way. My favorite part is when Minnow's adventure ends and his curiosity is resolved. I love that this film takes place at Geumso Village, and we learn about its interesting history. Even today, old women weaving hemp cloth wash their hemp yarn and cloth in this little stream. As it is always kept clear, a lot of minnows live here. The filmmaker gives credit to the natural hemp cloth making process from the point of view of a minnow living in a little stream.

The film's message is that curiosity causes fears to be conquered more than will or bravery. That and, it reveals a little known story about how this hemp cloth is made.

I give A Minnow: The Hemp Cloth Lover 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - A Minnow: The Hemp Cloth Lover is a rather magical story, beautifully animated.

The film follows a minnow that lives in a small stream and sees a tress of what appears to be golden hair floating in the water. Curiosity causes the minnow to investigate and follow it. The minnow follows the tresses in a fun and pioneering adventure. This film is from Korea, with dialogue in Korean and English subtitles. It is a stop-motion animation filmed at Geumso Village - a beautiful place famous for its exceptionally fine hemp cloth.

This is a beautifully animated film; its visual elements are quite stunning and the storyline is unique, giving homage to traditional hemp weaving in this village. Through the minnow's curiosity, we learn how the cloth is made. Minnow has a charming personality and I like how curiosity drives him on an adventure. The bright background music enhances the film in a fun way. My favorite part is when Minnow's adventure ends and his curiosity is resolved. I love that this film takes place at Geumso Village, and we learn about its interesting history. Even today, old women weaving hemp cloth wash their hemp yarn and cloth in this little stream. As it is always kept clear, a lot of minnows live here. The filmmaker gives credit to the natural hemp cloth making process from the point of view of a minnow living in a little stream.

The film's message is that curiosity causes fears to be conquered more than will or bravery. That and, it reveals a little known story about how this hemp cloth is made.

I give A Minnow: The Hemp Cloth Lover 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


SWING, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
SWING, THE
JACKIE ROSS
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic -
Description - The Swing is a hand drawn animated film using pencil and paper, about the joy and connection a child has with the tree outside his home and what happens when they weather a storm. It explores the theme of loss and hope.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I love The Swing because of its focus on learning to cope with loss. The swing and the tree it is on are so important in this child's life. The simple animation style really compliments the sweet storyline and message.

The Swing is about a boy and the joy he gets from swinging in a tree. It shows the way the swing is part of his life throughout the seasons and the years. After a big storm, the boy has to deal with the loss of his tree and his swinging spot.

The plot develops quickly in this short, six-minute film. We meet a boy and are quickly brought into his life perspective by way of a simple view of his experiences at his favorite place to play. We get to know his dog and his friend and really feel the love he has for the tree and the swing.

There are no actors in this animated film - the voiceless character of the boy is the key role. I enjoyed the idea that such a heart-warming story could be made without giving the characters, the boy and his friend, a presence. I could really feel the emotions of the boy, making me invested as I watched and helping the message sink in quickly. The Swing has a simple animation style that looks hand drawn. It uses pencil drawings and primary colors to give it a storybook feel - almost like you were watching a picture book come to life. The only location is the area around the tree on the hill. It is simple but impactful because all of the storytelling is done via this one place shown throughout time. The music really helps highlight the key scenes in The Swing. You don't always notice the music but it provides an upbeat backdrop for the majority of the film and then, during the most sad or traumatic moments, the music helps the viewer really feel the change. There are also fun moments where the music makes an impact - like when all the snow falls off the tree at once. The visual effect when the boy is swinging in a circle and looking up at the tree is really cool. It really made me feel like I was on a swing. My favorite part is when the boy shows his resilience and hangs the swing on a new tree after his tree is destroyed by lightning and cut down. It shows that joy can help you through grief.

The film's message is that joy can help you through grief and that you should never give up.

I give The Swing 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love The Swing because of its focus on learning to cope with loss. The swing and the tree it is on are so important in this child's life. The simple animation style really compliments the sweet storyline and message.

The Swing is about a boy and the joy he gets from swinging in a tree. It shows the way the swing is part of his life throughout the seasons and the years. After a big storm, the boy has to deal with the loss of his tree and his swinging spot.

The plot develops quickly in this short, six-minute film. We meet a boy and are quickly brought into his life perspective by way of a simple view of his experiences at his favorite place to play. We get to know his dog and his friend and really feel the love he has for the tree and the swing.

There are no actors in this animated film - the voiceless character of the boy is the key role. I enjoyed the idea that such a heart-warming story could be made without giving the characters, the boy and his friend, a presence. I could really feel the emotions of the boy, making me invested as I watched and helping the message sink in quickly. The Swing has a simple animation style that looks hand drawn. It uses pencil drawings and primary colors to give it a storybook feel - almost like you were watching a picture book come to life. The only location is the area around the tree on the hill. It is simple but impactful because all of the storytelling is done via this one place shown throughout time. The music really helps highlight the key scenes in The Swing. You don't always notice the music but it provides an upbeat backdrop for the majority of the film and then, during the most sad or traumatic moments, the music helps the viewer really feel the change. There are also fun moments where the music makes an impact - like when all the snow falls off the tree at once. The visual effect when the boy is swinging in a circle and looking up at the tree is really cool. It really made me feel like I was on a swing. My favorite part is when the boy shows his resilience and hangs the swing on a new tree after his tree is destroyed by lightning and cut down. It shows that joy can help you through grief.

The film's message is that joy can help you through grief and that you should never give up.

I give The Swing 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


I AM ENOUGH

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
I AM ENOUGH
CAROL WILSON
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic -
Description - A group of young adults navigate the overwhelming challenges of their mental health, each burdened by feelings of inadequacy. Struggling with bipolar disorder, self-harm, eating disorders, and other hidden battles, they wrestle with the fear that they'll never be enough. As their paths cross, their shared struggles become a quiet bond, but the weight of their individual pain threatens to isolate them. Through creative expression, the group begins to rediscover their voices, their strength, and the truth that they are more than their struggles. I Am Enough is a heartfelt story about mental health, self-care, and the importance of compassion - reminding us all that healing starts when we believe in our worth and treat others with kindness.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I Am Enough will truly stick with me. The music is catchy and the acting is terrific. The storyline follows a group of young adults who believe they are never enough; they feel isolated and it seems that nothing in their lives will get better. Their mentor helps them learn to express how they feel and the struggles they have through writing and singing, helping to reinforce their self-worth.

The plot develops very organically. One of the important scenes is when we learn that one of the main characters has an eating disorder. All the characters write down their problems, revealing both their past and present situation. This gives us insight into each individual. Another critical scene is when one person reveals that why she never goes out is because of her mother and we see how everyone has a bad situation to deal with. I really like how this is revealed because the audience hears it at the same time the other kids hear it. The big turning point is when Steph gets them to sing about how they are enough. This gives the kids hope. The final scene shows Harry, Porsha and another kid having a heartfelt conversation and realize that, even though their problems might not be solved, they can get through them together. The script is extremely well written, and the acting is even better. One of the main characters, Jen (Lauren J. Irwin), is the group's mentor and has had her own issues in the past. Irwin's character seems to have an entire story outside of this film. Another character, Paige (Symphony Gibbons), suffers from an eating disorder, and is unable to stop despite wanting to. Gibbons' performance really brings Paige to life. Harry (Frank Emsley) is a kid who deals with self-harm. The amount of emotion he shows and brings to the character made me so empathetic for him. Ryan and Sophie (Jake Kemp, Nessa Eriksson) show how assumptions can lead to people's downfalls. Ryan is assumed to be a drug dealer by everyone, and Sophie, his girlfriend, is assumed to be forcing them to be with their mentor. They are the least developed and I didn't relate to them very well. However, Jake Kemp and Nessa Eriksson both made their characters extremely believable. The camera work is very good; one shot that really stuck with me is the shot over the ocean - it is extremely beautiful despite a sad story being told. I also like the close-ups of the kids when they are writing, and the cutaways that show their problems. The song at the end of the movie, written by Jen, is spot on and makes a perfect ending. It emphasizes how they are not struggling alone and that there are people out there to remind them that they are enough. The ending scene is my favorite part. It is beautifully shot, and shows the uncertainty of having to be in a situation you can't control.

The film's message is to never blame yourself for your situation, and to know that there are others around to help you if you need it. Be aware that it does contain some acts of violence. There is a scene of self-harm and a mention of drugs.

I give I Am Enough 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I Am Enough will truly stick with me. The music is catchy and the acting is terrific. The storyline follows a group of young adults who believe they are never enough; they feel isolated and it seems that nothing in their lives will get better. Their mentor helps them learn to express how they feel and the struggles they have through writing and singing, helping to reinforce their self-worth.

The plot develops very organically. One of the important scenes is when we learn that one of the main characters has an eating disorder. All the characters write down their problems, revealing both their past and present situation. This gives us insight into each individual. Another critical scene is when one person reveals that why she never goes out is because of her mother and we see how everyone has a bad situation to deal with. I really like how this is revealed because the audience hears it at the same time the other kids hear it. The big turning point is when Steph gets them to sing about how they are enough. This gives the kids hope. The final scene shows Harry, Porsha and another kid having a heartfelt conversation and realize that, even though their problems might not be solved, they can get through them together. The script is extremely well written, and the acting is even better. One of the main characters, Jen (Lauren J. Irwin), is the group's mentor and has had her own issues in the past. Irwin's character seems to have an entire story outside of this film. Another character, Paige (Symphony Gibbons), suffers from an eating disorder, and is unable to stop despite wanting to. Gibbons' performance really brings Paige to life. Harry (Frank Emsley) is a kid who deals with self-harm. The amount of emotion he shows and brings to the character made me so empathetic for him. Ryan and Sophie (Jake Kemp, Nessa Eriksson) show how assumptions can lead to people's downfalls. Ryan is assumed to be a drug dealer by everyone, and Sophie, his girlfriend, is assumed to be forcing them to be with their mentor. They are the least developed and I didn't relate to them very well. However, Jake Kemp and Nessa Eriksson both made their characters extremely believable. The camera work is very good; one shot that really stuck with me is the shot over the ocean - it is extremely beautiful despite a sad story being told. I also like the close-ups of the kids when they are writing, and the cutaways that show their problems. The song at the end of the movie, written by Jen, is spot on and makes a perfect ending. It emphasizes how they are not struggling alone and that there are people out there to remind them that they are enough. The ending scene is my favorite part. It is beautifully shot, and shows the uncertainty of having to be in a situation you can't control.

The film's message is to never blame yourself for your situation, and to know that there are others around to help you if you need it. Be aware that it does contain some acts of violence. There is a scene of self-harm and a mention of drugs.

I give I Am Enough 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 20 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


OLIVIA AND THE KINGDOM OF WINGED THINGS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
OLIVIA AND THE KINGDOM OF WINGED THINGS
SHERVONNE TAYLOR
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic -
Description - "Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things" is a short film about a shy, imaginative little girl named Olivia Catherine Amanda Mae Brown (named after just about every woman in her family) who more than anything wants to be a butterfly in her school play, 'The Backyard Ballet.' Olivia's classmates tease and bully her into believing she's too big to dance. After spending time with her grandmother, she enters a magical dream later that night, where she learns to start believing in herself instead of listening to the taunting words of others. But just as Olivia finds her own unique wings, she discovers that this is just the beginning of her journey. What will she do? And who will she believe? "Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things" is an uplifting story about overcoming fear, family secrets and the power of kindness.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I love this film! So empowering and cheerful. Just what young people need today.

The animated short follows a young girl whose confidence is tested after being bullied by other girls in her class. After a visit with her grandmother, she has a dream that empowers her to believe in herself and scores the role in her school play she was hoping to get. The end is a bit odd, as she gets a call telling her that her mom is in the hospital. I guess this is the lead in to the next story but it feels odd since we weren't aware of that until we saw the ending.

I love the 2D animation. It's bright and colorful and perfect for the target audience. The bullying is typical of what kids are dealing with today and the way it's handled, with help from the girl's grandmother and her dream, are perfect. The narrator's voice is strong and adds a lot to the story; the voice actors that play the girl, the grandmother and the butterflies are also appropriate. The plot develops well, with the exception of the threatening call at the end, which threw me for a loop. As formerly mentioned, it seems to be the lead in to a subsequent story, but we had no indication that this was part of a series.

The film's message is about believing in yourself.

I give Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love this film! So empowering and cheerful. Just what young people need today.

The animated short follows a young girl whose confidence is tested after being bullied by other girls in her class. After a visit with her grandmother, she has a dream that empowers her to believe in herself and scores the role in her school play she was hoping to get. The end is a bit odd, as she gets a call telling her that her mom is in the hospital. I guess this is the lead in to the next story but it feels odd since we weren't aware of that until we saw the ending.

I love the 2D animation. It's bright and colorful and perfect for the target audience. The bullying is typical of what kids are dealing with today and the way it's handled, with help from the girl's grandmother and her dream, are perfect. The narrator's voice is strong and adds a lot to the story; the voice actors that play the girl, the grandmother and the butterflies are also appropriate. The plot develops well, with the exception of the threatening call at the end, which threw me for a loop. As formerly mentioned, it seems to be the lead in to a subsequent story, but we had no indication that this was part of a series.

The film's message is about believing in yourself.

I give Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


AM I STILL BEAUTIFUL?

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
AM I STILL BEAUTIFUL?
TARA ZULFIKAR
Series: COLLEGE STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic -
Description - Fourteen-year-old Malaya is the quintessential tomboy who loves baggy pants and hanging out with boys. However, her world of familial expectation and rough friendships collide on the day of her birthday party, when she is forced to prove her masculinity once and for all in order to defend her best friend and secret crush, Ali.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really enjoyed watching Am I Still Beautiful! It is a fun, lighthearted movie with a good theme that is relatable to most teens. Along with that, there are gorgeous sets, music, and lighting that really make the whole movie feel immersive.

The plot follows Malalia (Sofia Inez Garcia), as she hosts her birthday party. She clearly struggles with self love and her self image. We meet Ali, the boy she is fond of, who only thinks of her as a friend (or a brother). Malalia is desperate to gain the love and approval of Ali and the other boys she invited to her party. She succumbs to peer pressure, and is forced into an uncomfortable situation. Luckily, Malalia's mother (Paula Sim) reminds her of an important lesson.

I like the plot of this film - it shows Malalia's longing to fit in and meet the standards of her friends. The theme isn't forced and is well developed throughout the film. Additionally, I enjoy Malalia's relationship with her mother. There is wonderful acting that depicts the trust and love between the two, which is refreshing to see. I think that the conflict with Malalia's friends could have been made a bit more clear. The movie spends very little time showing Malalia's relationship with her friends and we don't quite see how much Malalia wants their approval and acceptance. I am impressed with the performance of Sofia Inez Garcia's portrayal of Malalia. Malalia is a complex character - she tries to like herself, but cares a lot about the opinion of others. Garcia's facial expressions and tone clearly demonstrate how her character feels. I also admire Paula Sim's portrayal of her mom. We see how terrific her relationship is with her daughter. The camera work is clear and fitting for every scene. My favorite shot is the final scene where Malalia and her mom are hugging. This really highlights a powerful moment in the film and depicts how strong Malalia and her mother's relationship is. The sets are very homey and warm. I especially love Malalia's room. It is painted a gorgeous blue with stars and posters and really feels like Malalia's safe place. The background music is lively and is worth noting. It adds to the warm atmosphere. At one point, when Malalia and her mother have a heart to heart, and then lay on the carpet, hugging, the music enhances the power of this moment. The casting director, Marg Zhang, deserves praise. The cast beautifully showcases the story. My favorite character is the mom - she delivers the valuable theme of self love, is very supportive of Malalia, and has positive energy that is a joy to watch. My favorite scene is when Malalia asks, "Am I still beautiful?" and the mom responds, "Stunning."

The film's message is that it is more important to love yourself than search for the approval of others.

I give Am I Still Beautiful! 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed watching Am I Still Beautiful! It is a fun, lighthearted movie with a good theme that is relatable to most teens. Along with that, there are gorgeous sets, music, and lighting that really make the whole movie feel immersive.

The plot follows Malalia (Sofia Inez Garcia), as she hosts her birthday party. She clearly struggles with self love and her self image. We meet Ali, the boy she is fond of, who only thinks of her as a friend (or a brother). Malalia is desperate to gain the love and approval of Ali and the other boys she invited to her party. She succumbs to peer pressure, and is forced into an uncomfortable situation. Luckily, Malalia's mother (Paula Sim) reminds her of an important lesson.

I like the plot of this film - it shows Malalia's longing to fit in and meet the standards of her friends. The theme isn't forced and is well developed throughout the film. Additionally, I enjoy Malalia's relationship with her mother. There is wonderful acting that depicts the trust and love between the two, which is refreshing to see. I think that the conflict with Malalia's friends could have been made a bit more clear. The movie spends very little time showing Malalia's relationship with her friends and we don't quite see how much Malalia wants their approval and acceptance. I am impressed with the performance of Sofia Inez Garcia's portrayal of Malalia. Malalia is a complex character - she tries to like herself, but cares a lot about the opinion of others. Garcia's facial expressions and tone clearly demonstrate how her character feels. I also admire Paula Sim's portrayal of her mom. We see how terrific her relationship is with her daughter. The camera work is clear and fitting for every scene. My favorite shot is the final scene where Malalia and her mom are hugging. This really highlights a powerful moment in the film and depicts how strong Malalia and her mother's relationship is. The sets are very homey and warm. I especially love Malalia's room. It is painted a gorgeous blue with stars and posters and really feels like Malalia's safe place. The background music is lively and is worth noting. It adds to the warm atmosphere. At one point, when Malalia and her mother have a heart to heart, and then lay on the carpet, hugging, the music enhances the power of this moment. The casting director, Marg Zhang, deserves praise. The cast beautifully showcases the story. My favorite character is the mom - she delivers the valuable theme of self love, is very supportive of Malalia, and has positive energy that is a joy to watch. My favorite scene is when Malalia asks, "Am I still beautiful?" and the mom responds, "Stunning."

The film's message is that it is more important to love yourself than search for the approval of others.

I give Am I Still Beautiful! 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


UNSTOPPABLE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
UNSTOPPABLE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
AMAZON STUDIOS
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Unstoppable is the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) who was born with one leg but whose indomitable spirit and unbreakable resolve empowered him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams. With the unwavering love and support of his devoted mother Judy (Jennifer Lopez) and the encouragement of his coaches, Anthony fights through adversity to earn a spot on the Arizona State Wrestling team. But it will demand everything he has, physically and mentally, to achieve his ultimate quest to become an NCAA Champion.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - See youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It's inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles' incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.

Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) is a wrestler who's missing a leg. He comes from a dysfunctional family as his father is abusive and comes and goes as he pleases. The story begins at Robles' senior year of high school as he is applying to colleges while competing in many wrestling matches. He takes the daring choice to walk onto ASU, one of the top schools for wrestling. Not sure if he has what it takes or not, but with support from his siblings, Anthony makes the team and finds his place. He is faced with the match of his life as he competes with his biggest opponent his senior year of college. To Anthony this match means more than just winning, it is an opportunity for people to look up to him for who he is, not what he's missing.

This beautiful story is accompanied by a fantastic cast. Jharrel Jerome's portrayal of Anthony is the heart of this film. He has such great dynamics throughout the film, which truly demonstrate Anthony's personal and emotional growth, along with his physical growth throughout his training. The stunts are done by Anthony Robles himself, making this film all that more special. Jenifer Lopez, as Anthony's mom (Judy), also delivers a great performance. Her character shows a different side of Anthony's story - together the two actors have a lovely chemistry which is so vital to the story. Micheal Pe�a, who is a Latino Hollywood gem, plays Anthony's coach in the film, and is great as always. Don Cheadle, who plays Anthony's college coach, is another amazing actor who delivers a terrific performance. On the surface, the film seems to be a typical sports drama; however director William Goldenberg allows the story to shine on its own. I love when stories show awareness of unknown heroes; I am unfamiliar with wrestling, but watching this film was so inspiring and uplifting. I also love that it goes beyond being a stereotypical story of an athlete striving to reach to the top. I also really enjoyed the cinematography by Salvatore Totino. The cinematography reflects the way Anthony feels internally - his lows are shown in varied gray and cool tones; his highs are brightly and vibrantly colored, which brings life to his story.

The film's message is to persevere and fight for your dreams. Be aware that there are some violent scenes and strong language.

I give Unstoppable 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It is available to watch now in theaters or on Amazon Prime.

By Zo� C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


AUTUMN AND THE BLACK JAGUAR

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
AUTUMN AND THE BLACK JAGUAR       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
BLUE FOX ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5 TO 18
Topic - Family
Description - Growing up in the Amazon rainforest gave Autumn the rarest of friendships - a lost jaguar cub she discovers named Hope. When a tragic event forces Autumn to leave Hope for the unknowns of New York City, she dreams for years of going back to the rainforest and her friend. Aged 14, and having grown accustomed to city life, Autumn discovers her childhood village is under threat from animal traffickers and decides she must return to the Amazon to her beloved jaguar. Anja - Autumn's endearingly clumsy biology teacher - unsuccessfully tries to dissuade her from this reckless plan. Joined by Anja, Autumn embarks on a journey to reunite with Hope and save her from those who seek to destroy the rainforest and its wildlife.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Autumn and the Black Jaguar is a passionate tale of friendship that surpasses human boundaries. Told through a combination of flashbacks and present-day scenes, it shows how one girl, on a quest to save a jaguar, changes the mindset of an entire community.

The film follows Autumn (Lumi Pollack), a teen girl who loves animals but has none of her own. Autumn lives in New York City with her single father (Paul Greene), who moved them out of their former home in the forest after the murder of Autumn's mother (Eva Avila) by animal poachers. When Autumn learns that Hope, the jaguar who was her childhood best friend, is in danger, she makes the journey to the Amazon rainforest to save her, trailed by her agoraphobic biology teacher (Emily Bett Rickards) and her hedgehog.

One of the most impressive aspects of Autumn and the Black Jaguar is the character development of multiple people. Almost every character undergoes some kind of transformation. Autumn learns to ask for help when she needs it, and that, while she should trust her instincts, being careful is just as important as activism. Autumn's father learns to let people in instead of pushing them away. Her teacher opens up and is forced to reenter the world and make friends. Even Autumn's uncle Or� (Wayne Charles Baker) learns to take a stand when something is wrong, rather than sitting still. The cinematography is also worth mentioning - Autumn and the Black Jaguar takes place in a rainforest and we see many breathtakingly beautiful shots of the Amazon jungle and its wildlife, rivers and waterfalls. Finally, the chemistry between Lumi Pollack and the real jaguar used for the film blows my mind. Before filming for Autumn and the Black Jaguar began, Pollack spent one year bonding with the jaguar, which is very apparent when they are on-screen together. Their interactions are very natural, and Pollack displays no fear or tension around the jaguar (which is really saying something, considering its size!). I was greatly moved by this touching story of one girl's unwavering bond with an animal and how she uses it to make a change.

Autumn's inspiring journey is a reminder to stand up for those who would do the same for you in your time of need - animals as well as people. Be there for those who have been there for you, because one day you could be depending on them to save you. Autumn and the Black Jaguar also highlights the importance of perseverance. Determination can be the difference between failing and making an impact, even when it seems like the cards are stacked against you.

I give Autumn and the Black Jaguar 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters nationwide on January 17, 2025.

By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


STUGO

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
STUGO       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
DISNEY CHANNEL
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Follows six overambitious middle schoolers tricked into attending a fake academic summer camp by a mad scientist. Now they're stuck for three months on a wild tropical island with mind-reading manatees, giant fighting fungi and fashion-forward mutants, less academia than they'd hoped for but a lot more adventure.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The upcoming series StuGo went above and beyond my expectations. The animation style really compliments the story and the fun nature of the characters, while still keeping a serious tone to certain characters, such as Dr. Lullah and Mr. Okay, making it fun for kids and families.

StuGo follows six genius middle schoolers, Pliny (Tania Gunadi), Chip Manhands (Zach Reino), Merian (Zosia Mamet), Francis (Gabourey Sidibe), Larry (Charlyne Yi ), and Sara (Deborah Baker Jr.) who are heading to "Dr. Lullah's Legitimate Summer Camp" until things go quite differently than expected.

The quality of this show makes it clear how much time and effort Disney put into it and it pays off. The series has great classic humor, such as the character Francis, who is an iconic silent type who brings hilarious deadpan reactions to the show. Another great character is the Nannytee (episode 2) a Manatee that Dr. Lullah uses to get the kids out of her hair. Over the course of this episode we see a story arc for Dr. Lullah, from wanting to get away from the kids to risking the thing she spent all day working on for them. This episode also has a witty, cautionary tale of what might happen if you could actually attract an asteroid to Earth with your fingers. Pliny teaches Larry how to "noodle," which is the art of fishing with your fingers, and Larry lets a little too loose. We see the characters grow and become new versions of themselves, because each character has their own story arc, even in the three episodes I watched.

This show has many good messages, including the importance of friendship and the idea that you can have fun while still being careful. Each message is pushed naturally and sinks into your mind very well, subtly teaching great lessons. However, if your child has a fear of suspenseful themes and some odd looking mutated characters, you may want to review the show before letting them watch it.

I give StuGo 5 out of 5 and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. The series launches on Disney Plus and the Disney Channel on January 11, 2025.

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: TV


WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NETFLIX
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 8 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Aardman's four-time Academy Award�-winning director Nick Park and Emmy Award-nominated Merlin Crossingham return with a brand new epic adventure, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. In this next installment, Gromit's concern that Wallace is becoming too dependent on his inventions proves justified, when Wallace invents a "smart" gnome that seems to develop a mind of its own. When it emerges that a vengeful figure from the past might be masterminding things, it falls to Gromit to battle sinister forces and save his master... or Wallace may never be able to invent again!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl is an impressive animated and well-thought out film that took me on a journey unlike any other. From the characters and their development to the animation backgrounds it is a fantastic film.

The storyline follows the character Wallace (Ben Whitehead) as he begins to get a little too dependent on all his inventions. Gromit is concerned that this has gotten out of hand. Gromit's suspicions prove to be valid when a smart gnome that Wallace has created seems to develop a mind of its own. When a figure reappears, ready to execute his revenge, it is up to Gromit to stop him or Wallace may never be able to invent again.

One of the most impressive parts of this film is its animation technique. Wallace & Gromit films all use a style of animation called claymation which is essentially a mix of computer animation and clay models of characters and sets used in the movie. Claymation involves being very careful not to mix the different clays or it could result in the colors of the clay figures being amiss. It is a very long and tedious, yet rewarding process. I also really like the plot. I can't say too much for fear of spoiling it but, the whole story really captured and held my attention. Even from the beginning when all we see is Wallace's numerous inventions. I also really enjoy how they feature a dog as a central character that drives most of the story and yet, he cannot speak. That keeps a bit of a realistic aspect to the story.

The film's message is to always be careful with what you create and trust your gut instinct.

I give Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch this film on Netflix starting January 5, 2025.

By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


MUFASA: THE LION KING

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
MUFASA: THE LION KING       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WALT DISNEY ANIMATED STUDIOS
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, "Mufasa: The Lion King" enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka--the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny--their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Time to visit Pride Rock once again. Mufasa: The Lion King takes us back to the beginnings of one of Disney's most beloved characters. As a huge fan of the original Lion King, I was thrilled to see the true story of how the great Mufasa came to be.

Mufasa: The Lion King explores the untold story of Mufasa's youth long before he became the king of The Pride Lands. The film follows his journey from a humble and uncertain young lion to the wise, noble leader we know. Along the way, Mufasa forms deep bonds of friendship, faces challenges, and navigates a complicated relationship. As he learns what it means to be a leader, Mufasa discovers that true strength comes from love, loyalty, and doing what's right, no matter the cost.

Mufasa faces a lot of challenges, but he always tries to do the right thing and protect those he loves. Writers Jeff Nathanson, Linda Woolverton, and Irene Mecchi have created a strong storyline that connects the puzzle pieces together to complete the full story of the Lion King and Mufasa. In Mufasa: The Lion King, the characters come to life in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. The heart of the movie revolves around Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who brings warmth and wisdom to the young lion's journey. As the film explores his bond with his brother Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), their complex relationship is highlighted through both voice acting and rich storytelling. A breathtaking moment for me is when a single water droplet freezes in mid-air, perfectly capturing Simba's (Donald Glover) face. It creates an almost surreal feeling, as if time itself has paused, and the film freezes in that very instant, allowing the emotion in that scene to linger. The music does not disappoint in this film either, with catchy, upbeat songs throughout.

The film emphasizes that true leadership comes from being kind, strong, and fair, while also reminding us that sometimes family dynamics can be complicated. The story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, even when life is tough. The movie focuses on choosing to do what is right, no matter what happens. Be forewarned, there are a lot of fighting scenes throughout the film. While not overly graphic, it can be a bit intense especially for younger audiences.

Mufasa: The Lion King gets 3 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. Mufasa: The Lion King releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I love the film Mufasa: The Lion King! The movie has incredibly detailed animation and provides the message that everyone has a place in this world, and that you don't have to be born great to become great. These morals are conveyed through the dialogue and plot of the film.

Mufasa: The Lion King tells the backstory of the young lion, Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who is separated from his parents and taken far from home. A young Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) gladly takes him into his home, and his mother, Eshe (Thandiwe Newton) raises the lost lion. As Mufasa grows up, he learns how to understand his surroundings and hunt like a female. Eventually, Taka and Mufasa have to leave home together and go on a long adventure, to find the magical land of Milele.

One actor who really stands out to me is John Kani, who voices the all-knowing Mandrill monkey, Rafiki. Kani not only voices Rafiki with passion, but understands his character deeply. John Kani uses timing and volume to truly set in the words of the wise monkey. When saying philosophical things, which occurs often, Rafiki takes his time to ensure that the message gets across to the other animals. Another thing that stands out is the animation; the head of the team being Pascal Blais. One of the first things that I noticed when the movie started is how realistic the animation is. Every piece of fur on the lions' coats, every highlight or shadow, even every small gust of wind that blows the leaves in the trees is so carefully created. The transitions of the film flow smoothly and show how truly talented the animation team is.

The message of this film is that you have a place, and no matter where you come from, you can be something great. Mufasa is very successful in motivating others to take action and be brave in everyday life!

I give Mufasa: The Lion King 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It opens in theatres on December 20, 2024.

By Juliana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16



KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: THE COMPLETE FOURTEENTH SEASON

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: THE COMPLETE FOURTEENTH SEASON       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: DVD, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - The Complete Fourteenth Season continues the nautical adventures of Nickelodeon's longest-running animated series featuring SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends Patrick, Sandy, Mr. Krabs, Plankton and Squidward in a two-disc collection.
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KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! SpongeBob SquarePants: The Complete Fourteenth Season is epic. SpongeBob is still the funniest sponge ever. In this season he gets into even more wacky situations and takes us along for the ride.

This two disc DVD collection features 26 episodes and totals just under five hours of SpongeBob (Tom Kenny), Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke), Sandy (Carolyn Lawrence), Gary (Tom Kenny), Squidward (Rodger Bumpass) and the rest of the gang along with new faces. The fourteenth season of this animated television series, created by former marine biologist and animator Stephen Hillenburg, began airing on Nickelodeon in the United States on November 2, 2023. The series chronicles the exploits and adventures of SpongeBob and his various friends in the fictional underwater city of Bikini Bottom.

Season 14 also has a lot of heart. Even though there are lots of jokes and silliness, there are moments when SpongeBob shows that he cares about his friends, and that's really sweet. He's always there to help out, even when things go wrong. He's a friendly sponge that won't let anyone down. The animation is awesome - everything looks bright, colorful, and fun, just like I expect from Bikini Bottom. The underwater world feels really alive, and it is so cool seeing SpongeBob once again go on some crazy adventures in this new season. My favorite episode is "Snow Yellow and The Seven Jellies." In this episode SpongeBob and his friends do a super funny twist on a classic fairy tale. Snow Yellow works for the queen and does everything she asks him, but SpongeBob is claimed "the squarest of them all' so the evil Karen wants to claim Snow Yellow's title and be the squarest queen of them all. All in all, this season is funny, and just plain awesome.

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Complete Fourteenth Season is filled with everything I love about the show - silly jokes, fun adventure, and lovable characters. As a longtime fan of this show it made me laugh and smile. But you don't have to be a longtime fan; I think newcomers will enjoy it also. Beware; there are some moments that involve slightly gross and inappropriate material that might be offensive to younger audiences.

SpongeBob SquarePants: Season 14 gets 5 out of 5 tars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This collection releases in time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the show. SpongeBob SquarePants: The Complete Fourteenth Season is available on DVD from Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon Home Entertainment beginning November 19, 2024.
Runtime: 295 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 17.99
Media: DVD
      Buy Here (Amazon.com)


Buy Here (from PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT)


SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
PARAMOUNT PICTURES
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 8 TO 18
Topic - Family
Description - Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen this holiday season in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.
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KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Sonic the Hedgehog 3 far exceeded my expectations, and proves a worthy successor to the previous two films. Booming with heart, vibrancy and thrill, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 takes the Sonic franchise to new heights. Its impressive action sequences, well-written plot, and exceptional voice performances make for perfect family viewing for the holidays.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 sees the return of the beloved blue hedgehog, Sonic (Ben Shwartz), enjoying his life on earth with his friends Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba). Once Sonic is met with Shadow (Keanu Reeves), a seemingly dark reflection of himself, Sonic is forced to defeat Shadow by all means necessary. Enlisting the help of his past foe, evil scientist Robotnik (Jim Carrey), Sonic and his friends are sent on a globe-trotting mission with world-threatening consequences.

Perhaps Sonic the Hedgehog 3's most impressive achievement is its action. Since Sonic derives from the classic video game, these film adaptations are able to bring in some elements we haven't seen before. They elevate the art form of computer-generated action, by introducing some breathtaking game-inspired graphics. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is no exception. With several action set pieces, spanning from Tokyo to London, the film is worth watching for its thrilling cinematography. What I find particularly appealing is how the film plays with color in its characters, especially during fight scenes. We are exposed to an extent of vibrancy that is absent from other films, so it feels incredibly refreshing to witness something that feels genuinely joyful and energetic. As for Sonic the Hedgehog 3's plot, the writing is surprisingly airtight. It's built on a foundation of familiar aspects, like cliched dialogue and predictable plot points, but the way that it reshapes an easily-digestible formula keeps the film enjoyable. While this unavoidable predictability is a given, we are exposed to numerous unexpected and fresh twists, visuals, and characters. The subplot featuring the franchise's brand new character, Shadow (Keanu Reeves), is, by far, the strongest aspect of the film. Powerful and unexpectedly emotional, it paints Shadow as a tragically complex villain, which strengthens the film as a whole. As is standard with the Sonic franchise, the voice performances are superb. Each actor, especially the incredible Ben Shwartz as Sonic, gives an impressive personality to their CGI character. They feel real, not just in the way they physically interact with the environment, but in the amount of character each one has - they have distinct features, as well as distinct personality traits. A standout is the legendary Idris Elba, who creates an incredibly rugged, but loveable character in Knuckles. Knuckles is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining parts of the film, in his impeccable comedic delivery by Elba. By far the biggest standout of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 though is Keanu Reeves' shadow, which Reeves crafts into a deeply multi-faceted villain. Reeves, venturing into voice acting, absolutely steals the show. His performance not only makes Shadow sympathetic, but a truly threatening and fitting villain.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 achieves not only good fun, but cements itself as the best film of the Sonic trilogy. It is heartwarming, uplifting, and sometimes hilarious. Solely restrained by some foreseeable plot elements, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 elevates the landscape of video game adaptations.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 receives 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

By Daniel S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

I absolutely love this film! Sonic The Hedgehog 3 is beyond funny. It is hilarious. It is laugh-out-loud, knee-slapping, hold-your-belly, funny. There are so many unexpected twists and surprises. Just when I thought I knew what was next, something or someone pops up.

The storyline continues the story of the hedgehog named Sonic (Ben Swartz) and his friends and family, Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessy), Knuckles (Idris Elba), Tom (James Marsden), and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). They team up against some old and some new powerful enemies. Of course, Jim Carrey returns as Dr. Robotnik, but he is not Team Sonic's only enemy. Sonic and his team fight against new enemies that are more powerful than expected.

I have watched and loved many of the Sonic movies and television spin offs and this movie is my favorite. Sonic The Hedgehog 3 had me laughing, gasping, and dancing. Most of the characters are pretty funny but mostly, I love Jim Carrey's role as Dr. Robotnik. He is so silly in all of the Sonic movies, but he is twice as funny and silly in this one. He brings double the laughter. The jokes between Sonic, Knuckles and Tails are clever and fun. The new characters add to the comedy and the excitement. I was shocked to see the new characters and the powers they have. Plus their back stories are interesting and surprising. The music is as dance worthy as we expect from the Sonic movies. My favorite parts in the first two Sonic films were Dr. Robotnik's dance breaks. My favorite scene in this one is his dance break as well and, I have to say - he brings it twice as good and silly.

The lessons learned in this film is to be true to who you are. Problems are easier when you're part of a team and, most importantly, you always have a choice to do the right thing. There are a lot of violent fight scenes.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. This film opens in theatres on December 20, 2024.

By Eli C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 9

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is an excellent, fast-paced flick. The addition of more colorful characters, a new epic storyline, and multiple plot twists take the "Blue Blur" to places he's never been before.

After the fall of Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey), and Knuckles (Idris Elba) thought that they could finally have a moment of peace. Well, they were wrong. Enter Shadow (Keanu Reeves), a chaos-powered hedgehog with a strong vengeance against Earth. With no hope of being able to defeat Shadow by themselves, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles must partner up with the one and only Dr. Robotnik.

From the start, I could tell that this movie was special. Director Jeff Fowler utilizes the unique personalities of the characters, and their interactions with each other is fun to watch. For instance, when Sonic tells Shadow that he doesn't want to fight him, Knuckles leans over and tells Sonic, "Actually, I would like to fight!" It's hard to pick a favorite thing about this movie. However, I love the scene where the "Donut Lord," Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter) sneak into a military base under holographic disguises. Who does Maddie pick to be her disguise? Her no-nonsense sister, Rachel (Natasha Rothwell). When Tom tells Maddie that she needs to add more "oomph" when she speaks if she wants to fit the part, Maddie tells Tom about all the problems he caused Rachel. After she is done, the only thing Tom can say is "Yep that sounds about right." The CGI is really advanced in this film - it is hard to tell what is computer animated, and what is real. The background music and sound effects add a nice touch, and Shadow's mysterious backstory kept me wondering what would happen next. In the beginning the plot is a bit rushed, and it's hard to appreciate the peace and quiet that existed before Shadow arrives. However, the film makes up for that by finding creative ways to tie it together with the previous two films such as showing Wade (Adam Pally), who was the assistant sheriff in the first two films, but is now the guardian of the Master Emerald, an important position granted by Knuckles.

The film's message is to not let anger define who you are. Shadow learns that maybe friendship is better than fighting and, in time, is able to forge a strong bond with Team Sonic. Be forewarned that there is a small amount of profanity.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It dashes into theaters on December 20, 2024. Be sure to stay till the end of the credits. You'll be glad you did.

By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


SECRET LIFE OF ANIMALS, THE

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
SECRET LIFE OF ANIMALS, THE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
APPLE TV
Series: TV SERIES, 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Showcases rare footage of animal behaviors across 77 species in 24 countries, highlighting their intelligence and adaptability through pivotal life moments like birth, raising families, and finding food.
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KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Secret Lives of Animals is a compelling docu-series that observes nature's most interesting creatures. It takes a deep dive into the most astonishing mannerisms of animals, complete with powerful narration, a sensational soundtrack, and wildlife cinematography of the highest quality.

The 10-part docu-series follows 77 different animals in 24 countries with nature's rarest qualities, allowing viewers a close-up look at their interactions and their natural habitats. It is chronologically ordered to follow the stages of life, beginning with "Leaving Home" and ending with "Growing Old." At the end of every episode is a special feature, including behind-the-scenes footage of the wildlife photographers in action. The Secret Lives of Animals is narrated by SAG award winner Hugh Bonneville, who viewers may recognize from his roles in Paddington and Downton Abbey, and run by Showrunner Matt Brandon (Planet Earth III).

The cinematography of The Secret Lives of Animals is mind-blowing. Produced for Apple TV+ by BBC Studios Natural History Unit, it features bold shots of raging rivers, and contrasting, calmer ones capturing the very moment a raindrop falls from a leaf. The behind-the-scenes features show us just how careful the photographers have to be to avoid startling the animals while filming, in order to capture the most authentic footage possible. There is also a significant amount of risk-taking that certain shots demand -- for example, the photographers during the "Leaving Home" stage had to approach Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall on the planet, while standing in a boat. While they were required to get dangerously close to the edge, the risk definitely paid off, because what they captured is truly stunning. The angles are varied, and the ways in which the cameras move, such as when they follow the animals on a chase or shoot upwards from a burrow, help build the drama in moments of peak excitement. Instrumentals alternate between peaceful melodies and strong bursts of music, and are combined with incredibly moving narration that works with the viewer's increasing excitement to create a true masterpiece. I found myself honestly appreciating the treasures nature hides in a way I never have before.

The Secret Lives of Animals highlights the intelligence of multiple different species, while illustrating that they are not as different from us, or each other, as we think. For example, the predator-prey cycle shows our collective goal to survive and avoid danger, and featured animals are also observed making friends and raising families, much as humans do. No matter what extravagant or distinguishing qualities they may have (such as fish that can fly!), all animals are united by the desire to survive.

I give The Secret Lives of Animals 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The series comes to Apple TV+ on December 18, 2024.

By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: TV


MOANA 2

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
MOANA 2
WALT DISNEY STUDIOS MOTION PICTURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 10 - 18
Topic - Family
Description - Walt Disney Animation Studios' epic animated musical Moana 2 reunites Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she's ever faced.
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KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I thoroughly enjoyed Moana 2 for its breathtaking animation and compelling storytelling. The vibrant visuals and the emotionally resonant narrative make it a worthy sequel to the original.

The film follows Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) as she embarks on an epic journey three years after her first adventure. Prompted by a mysterious call from her ancestors, she ventures into uncharted waters alongside Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and a diverse crew of seafarers. Together, they navigate treacherous oceans and uncover long-lost realms, confronting challenges that test their courage and unity. The stakes are higher; the landscapes are grander; and Moana's determination shines brighter than ever.

What truly sets Moana 2 apart is its rich combination of music, character development, and cultural authenticity. The soundtrack composed by Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa?i, Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear blends contemporary styles with traditional Polynesian rhythms, resulting in songs that are both memorable and deeply meaningful. Auli'i Cravalho delivers a stunning vocal performance that adds depth to Moana's journey, while Dwayne Johnson brings humor and heart again, as Maui. The film also introduces new characters, with actors Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, David Fane, Hualalai Chung, Awhimai Fraser, and Gerald Ramsey joining the cast and bringing fresh dynamics and humor to the story. Beyond the music and characters, the animation is stunning, capturing the majesty of Oceania with dazzling colors and intricate details. The filmmakers clearly respect and celebrate the cultural heritage they portray, immersing the audience in a world that feels authentic and alive.

At its heart, Moana 2 carries a powerful message: the importance of perseverance and staying connected to your roots while embracing the unknown.

Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on November 27, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Moana 2 has visually mesmerizing visuals, great animation, and a lovely soundtrack. I saw the first Moana when I was eight, so I was very excited to see what this sequel would bring to the table.

The film opens with a call from Moana's ancestors warning her that if she doesn't find the lost island of Motufetu, the story of her people would end. Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) recruits people from her island to sail the seas with her to find Nalo, a power hungry God who believes humans can achieve anything when they are united, which threatens him. Nalo separated all of the people of the sea and hid Motufetu so that he could never be destroyed. Hesitant, Moana takes on this scary journey for the sake of her people.

This sequel doesn't really continue the story from the first film, instead it re-tells the same tale with new characters. It follows the same formula as the first Moana: a call from Moana's ancestors, obstacles in reaching the main antagonist, and the final battle. The storyline is pretty underwhelming; it feels like a recreation of the first film just with better animation, new characters, and new songs. However, what makes this film so enjoyable to watch is all its other aspects. The immersive animation is absolutely enchanting. All of the colors and textures are spectacular; I didn't expect anything less from Disney. The score by Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa'i is also perfect. The soundtrack stuck in my head and raised the bar from the first film's score. The introduction of new characters is also a strong point. Moana's new little sister Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda) is just adorable. And the new villain, Matangi (Awhimai Fraser), creates some mystery and suspense in the plot. Auli'i Cravalho, as Moana, and Dwayne Johnson, as Maui, still have their powerful duo dynamic. With all these strong aspects this film has so much potential to continue the beautiful story the first film left us with, but unfortunately the plot makes this sequel subpar.

This film explores themes of community, overcoming adversity, and shows how when people come together, they can achieve anything.

Moana 2 gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. You can watch Moana 2 in theatres beginning November 27, 2024.

By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Moana 2 is one of the best movies I have ever seen. If you liked the first Moana, you're going to definitely LOVE this one. It has even more action, cooler songs, and new characters that will make you laugh. I definitely had the most awesome time watching this film.

In this film, Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) is older, mature, and more adventurous. After getting a call from her ancestors, Moana enlists a new crew Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo) and Kele (Daniel Fane) along with the help of Hei Hei (Alan Tudyk), Pua and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to embark on a dangerous journey to sail across the seas of Oceania to help save her island from a huge, powerful storm. As Moana faces new challenges, she discovers more about her ancestor and her true destiny!

The cast of characters is fabulous! Some of the original characters return in this sequel. Auli-i Cravalho Maui reprises the lead role. Maui is back, as himself, and his hair looks better than ever. Be ready to laugh when Maui argues with his tattoos. The new characters, Moni, Loto, Kele, and Moana's little sister Simea have a new spice that entertains the audience the whole way through. One of the best things about the film is its animation. The ocean is even prettier this time, and is so realistic it made me want to jump into the screen and go for a swim. The island looks like a setting straight out of a postcard. Also the constellations are vibrant and look amazing in the beautiful night sky. Last but not least, I love how Moana's hair majestically blows in the wind throughout the film. My favorite song from the film is "Beyond." It is the most wonderful song as it makes you feel brave to undertake any adventure.

Moana 2 has a powerful message of embracing your culture and inheritance. It also emphasizes the idea that, together with others, you are stronger and can do anything. Moana embraces the wonderful ocean life and that shows throughout the movie. Be aware that there are a few scary creatures that might frighten younger audiences.

Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Moana 2 opens in theaters November 27, 2024.

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

Moana 2 is a new and exciting journey for Moana. This sequel brings her liveliness and bravery back on the big screen, while also representing Pacific Islanders and making them feel seen.

The story follows Moana receiving an unexpected call from her ancestors telling her to restore an island that will connect all the people across the ocean. This journey is more risky than last time -- will she and her crew make it?

The main characters are Moana (Auli'i Cravalho), Maui (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson), Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo), Kele (David Fane), Heihei (Alan Tudyk) and Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda). We see the return of many beloved characters, with the addition of some new ones. It's fun to see some former characters pop up at random times. However, I question whether the addition of so many new characters is necessary -- it almost feels forced. The playful connection between Moana and Maui remains the same, but even at a deeper level as they have matured. In terms of the music, it is very upbeat and energetic, and Moana's voice has improved so much. It's stronger and has so much emotion, which adds to the plot, showing us how strongly Moana feels about taking the ancestor's call. The animation is wonderful; it truly captures the beauty of the islands with its vibrant colors and captures the characters' emotions through their expressive faces. The plot is enjoyable, despite some holes. It's a creative take on Moana's journey, not only to the ocean, but inside herself. She knows the risk of taking this journey, and she especially doesn't want to leave her little sister, Simea. But, she makes a difficult decision and ends up trying to restore the people. This could be a symbol of unity. My favorite part is the beginning, when the villagers are shown - it reminds me of the first movie and is so beautiful because it represents the Pacific Islanders' culture.

The film's message is that there's always another way to solve a problem. A goddess tells Moana that, even when it seems impossible, there's always another way. This gives Moana the motivation to push through and be strong. It also emphasizes the importance of community and sticking together.

Moana 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Moana 2 comes out in theaters November 27, 2024.

By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


SPELLBOUND

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
SPELLBOUND       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NETFLIX
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - Spellbound follows the adventures of Ellian, the tenacious princess who must go on a daring quest to save her family and kingdom after a mysterious spell transforms her parents, the King and Queen of Lumbria, into monsters.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Spellbound is a heartfelt, fantasy-adventure movie about family and what family means. Created with beautiful animation and fantastic songs, there is a lot to love here!

Spellbound follows the adventures of Ellian (Rachel Zegler), the tenacious young daughter of the rulers of Lumbria, who must go on a daring quest to save her family and kingdom after a mysterious spell transforms her parents. The movie is a modern take on a fairytale that uses familiar elements like a kingdom, princess, king, queen, and a spell to express the story of a family.

I like that Spellbound shows unhealthy family dynamics, and the idea that many children view their parents as monsters. Yet for Princess Ellian (Rachel Zegler), a spell really did transform her royal parents (Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem) into monsters. In making this dark fantasy come true, this transformation makes for a good analogy with tweens and parents. The movie is full of heart, laughter, and family -- all created with vibrant, colorful animation. Every scene is so beautiful that I could not take my eyes off the screen. The characters are all adorable. Spellbound features an all-star voice cast led by Rachel Zegler as Ellian -- the perfect princess with a beautiful voice who is independent and optimistic. I like that in a princess. Nathan Lane voices Sunny the Oracle of the Sun and Tituss Burgess is the voice of Ludo the Oracle of the Moon - they are perfect together. Other excellent cast members are John Lithgow and Jenifer Lewis.

Spellbound addresses what it is that really makes a family -- it is a modern fairytale that combines magical elements with a relatable story about family dynamics and overcoming alienation. I definitely related to this movie and think brings up good healthy conversations. It does tackle tough themes like parents' separation seen through Ellian's eyes and shows a child that blames themself and tries to 'fix' their parents' relationship, but can't.

I give Spellbound 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is available on Netflix starting November 22, 2024.

By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


WICKED: PART 1

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
WICKED: PART 1       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
UNIVERSAL PICTURES
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Wicked: Part I, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart. The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda's unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba's determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - See youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - So many words to describe this film -- Oh My! Wicked is a masterpiece of enchanting visuals, a beautiful score, amazing acting, and it is a timeless tale. As someone unfamiliar with the music and storyline, this film was an absolute delight. Director Jon M. Chu masterfully embeds such great components to make this film truly something worth watching.

The story tells the backstory of the "Good" and "Bad" witches, Elphaba and Glinda. The film opens by showing Elphaba's past. She was born completely green, and considered peculiar in a repellent way as society constantly rejects her until she is welcomed at Shiz University where she meets Glinda. At Shiz, Elphaba is granted the opportunity of new beginnings, and fights back against societal norms as she speaks out for what she believes in. While the two girls are very different, they work together in Elphaba's hopes of meeting the Wizard whom she glorifies. However, after she finally meets the great Wizard of Oz, she realizes what her heart truly desires.

This highly anticipated film adaptation of the popular musical combines a compelling story line, a great soundtrack, and an amazing cast. Cynthia Erivo is perfectly cast as Elphaba, as she vocally, emotionally, and physically embodies her character perfectly. Erivo and Ariana Grande, as Glinda, work so well together and create such a unique dynamic on the big screen. Their chemistry is what really ties this story together. However, the entire cast is packed with tons of iconic actors: Kristin Chenoweth (Wiz-o-mania Superstar), Idina Menzel (Wiz-o-mania Superstar), Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), and many other extremely talented actors. The sound track is also spectacular; all the songs are the same as the original musical, but hearing them in this film is so satisfying. I've always loved "Popular" and "Defying Gravity," so hearing Erivo and Grande's interpretations blew me away. The cinematography by Alice Brooks is something remarkable. Watching the film I truly felt transported to the Land of Oz and I find it especially interesting how this iconic classic tale truly feels reinvented and brings a new light to the Land of Oz.

The film's message is that people should always chase what their heart desires and not allow the rules of society to prevent them from doing so.

I give Wicked 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Wicked releases in theaters November 22, 2024.

By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I love this film! Wicked is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film directed by Jon M. Chu, who brings his signature style and flair to this magical adaptation. At its core, the film tells a story about friendship, courage, and staying true to yourself. It challenges the idea of good versus evil, showing that people aren't always what they seem and that everyone has their own struggles.

Wicked tells a story of how a green-skinned girl named Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who everyone thinks is bad, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), a popular girl, become unlikely best friends. It shows how being different can be powerful and how people aren't always what they seem.

Wicked isn't just a movie--it's an experience. Jon M. Chu's direction, a stellar cast, and breathtaking visuals come together to create something truly magical. The performances are outstanding. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) has an incredible heart and strength of character. Her journey from being an outcast to embracing her power is inspiring, and her performance of "Defying Gravity" is unforgettable. Glinda (Ariana Grande) is equally captivating. Her bubbly, lighthearted charm balances the story beautifully, and Glinda's evolving bond with Elphaba adds emotional depth. Their relationship is the heart of the film, showing how true friendship can overcome differences. The supporting cast also excels. Boq (Ethan Slater) and Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) are portrayed with depth and complexity. Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) commands attention, adding layers of intrigue to the story. Visually, Wicked is stunning. The costumes and set designs are so detailed; they make every scene magical. From the vibrant Shiz University and dazzlingly detailed Emerald City, to small touches like Elphaba's sharp green nails and Glinda's golden locks, the Land of Oz feels alive. The clever use of pink and green throughout the film reflects the contrasting personalities of the two leads. The music and vocals are the soul of the movie and are spectacular. Each song is packed with emotion, from the empowering "Defying Gravity" to the bubbly "Popular." The score makes every moment even more meaningful. Christopher Scott's choreography is big and joyful. It definitely had me "Dancing Through Life." The story's arc is deeply satisfying, exploring how Elphaba and Glinda start as rivals and grow into strong, complex women who redefine what it means to be good or wicked. The emotional highs and lows definitely captivated me from start to finish.

The film has a powerful message about how being different is a strength, not a weakness, and true friendship means accepting others for who they are. It also emphasizes the importance of standing up for what's right, even when it's difficult or misunderstood.

I give Wicked 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Wicked opens in theaters November 22, 2024.

By Madeleine H. K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The film Wicked is a fun and fantastical adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. The music alone is worth a visit to the movie theater; I can't get the songs out of my head! Also remarkable are the incredibly themed costumes, the dramatic visuals throughout the film, and the acting - they could not have selected a more fitting cast.

The film begins showing the residents of Munchkinland celebrating the death of the Wicked Witch Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), and Glinda (Ariana Grande) reminiscing about the good old days when she and Elphaba were friends. From there we learn about how poorly Elphaba was treated by both her friends and family as a youth, including Glinda herself. When Elphaba and Glinda realize they are destined to become best friends, that's when the trouble really begins. Together on a trip to Oz, they discover that the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) is not all that he is cracked up to be and each of them must make a decision that will affect the rest of their lives.

Success on Broadway comes down to the music, and this remake does not disappoint. The classic songs throughout the movie are just as good (if not better!) than the originals. I have been singing the songs from the movie since I saw it, especially "Defying Gravity," sung by Elphaba. The extended version in this movie is really fun because it makes a favorite song last even longer than in the play. The costumes are a good mix between the concepts from the 1900s and today's fashion. Elphaba's witch attire is my favorite, but Glinda's pink dress in the movie is also super fun. The ruffles upon ruffles are so beautiful! The casting is also very well done, as the actors all fit their roles so well and are a blend of classic and contemporary performances. Ariana Grande's version of Glinda is so relatable because Ariana is a modern day heroine for many girls. The choice to cast Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba was also perfect because her voice is just fantastic. I also enjoyed Jeff Goldblum's portrayal of the wizard, because he plays good and evil both so well. The colors and visuals throughout the movie are so bright and exciting. The colors of the Emerald City, and the costumes worn by the residents, are so vibrant and pretty to look at.

Wicked has many messages starting with don't treat people differently just because of how they look. For example, Elphaba's skin color is different from everyone else's and, as a result, people treated her poorly because of that. Be aware that there are themes of bullying and exclusion, as well as how babies are welcomed to the world.

I give Wicked 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It opens in theaters November 22, 2024.

By Audrey L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


OUT OF MY MIND

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
OUT OF MY MIND       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
DISNEY+
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Melody Brooks, a sixth grader with cerebral palsy, has a quick wit and a sharp mind, but because she is non-verbal and uses a wheelchair, she is not given the same opportunities as her classmates. When a young educator notices her student's untapped potential and Melody starts to participate in mainstream education, Melody shows that what she has to say is more important than how she says it.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper that is about family and friendship. I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie. The film explores the concept that a person's intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.

Born with cerebral palsy, Melody (Phoebe-Rae Taylor) is nonverbal, and she is placed in a preschool level remedial academic program where her greatest source of stimulation comes from listening to Judy Blume audiobooks. When Dr. Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) recognizes that Melody's cognitive abilities exceed what the class offers, she advocates for Melody to join Mr. Dimming's (Michael Chernus) class, which puts Melody on track for the life she has always dreamed of. Best of all, it puts her on a path to receive an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device so she can finally have the opportunity to make friends. But, like her journey thus far, nothing comes easy.

I really like how the film is told through Melody's first-person narrative, with Jennifer Aniston as Melody's voice, since Melody's favorite TV show is Friends. Jennifer Aniston delivers a lot of heart, love, and laughter in the role, which is paired perfectly with Phoebe-Rae Taylor's emotional performance as Melody. I was so invested in watching Melody's dreams come true, but also feeling for her parents Chuck and Diane (Luke Kirby, Rosemarie DeWitt). You can feel the struggle they have been fighting for their daughter's future and wanting what is best for her. I also love the next door neighbor, Mrs. V (Judith Light), who often helps Melody and her family. You can feel the love Mrs. V has for Melody through the screen. Mrs. V has some great moments and she always makes me smile. If you enjoy reading, I recommend reading the book Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper. Also available is the sequel, Out of My Heart, where Melody goes to camp for the first time and Out of My Dreams where Melody travels on an airplane for the first time and visits London.

Out of My Mind highlights the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to see the vibrant inner world of people with disabilities, particularly those who are non-verbal like Melody, who struggles with cerebral palsy but possesses a brilliant mind.

I give Out of My Mind 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. You can watch Out of My Mind on Disney beginning November 22, 2024.

By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

Out of My Mind is a coming-of-age film about a 12-year-old non-verbal girl with cerebral palsy - she must stand up for herself in order to have the same rights as other kids her age.

The storyline follows Melody (Phoebe-Rae Taylor) who is born with cerebral palsy and can't walk or speak. Although she is extremely bright and understands complex topics similar to those her age, she has limited opportunities to learn more advanced things. All her life, she attended school in the same special education classroom since kindergarten because of her disability. Melody desperately wants the chance to be able to go to school in a regular classroom with other sixth graders. Although her mom Diane (Rosemarie Dewitt) and her dad Chuck (Luke Kirby) are both caring and dedicated parents, they disagree about her ability to learn and survive in a regular sixth grade classroom.

Early in the film, Melody is given the chance to attend a regular sixth grade classroom with a visiting doctor Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) at her side. Melody falls in love with the classroom experience because she can understand what is being taught and also makes a new friend Rose (Maria Nash). However, Melody cannot raise her hand to answer questions because she communicates by pointing to letters or to her surroundings. The classroom teacher, Mr. Dimming (Michael Chernus), becomes frustrated and does not want Melody there. The main plot of the film involves a Whiz Kids competition in which the four smartest kids in the class compete on a national level. However, Mr. Dimming refuses to grade Melody's exam because he does not think she can compete. The movie shows the various obstacles in Melody's way: fighting to stay in the sixth-grade classroom, fighting to be on the Whiz Kids team, and fighting to make friends with other sixth graders and show them she is just as capable and interesting. One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall -- they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability. My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity. The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.

The film's message is that people won't know what you are capable of unless you show them. Melody is brave enough to advocate for herself being in a regular sixth grade classroom, which allows others to see she belongs there. A few scenes demonstrate inappropriate behavior that may not be suitable for young children.

I give Out of My Mind 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Out of My Mind when it releases on Disney+ on November 22, 2024.

By Arya B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS IN WONDERLAND, THE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS IN WONDERLAND, THE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
HULU, LLC
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - St Nick (Gerard Butler) receives a delayed letter on Christmas Eve from the Princess of Hearts. He and his dedicated team of reindeer set off to Wonderland where they're greeted by the mean and miserable Queen of Hearts (Emilia Clarke) who hates all things Christmas... especially presents! Can St Nick, aided by Alice (Simone Ashley), the Mad Hatter and March Hare, show the Queen the true meaning of Christmas and save the day before it's too late?
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland is a mashup of upbeat music, the twists and turns of Wonderland, and the holiday spirit! It's perfect for families and it definitely brought up some Christmas memories for me.

The film follows the story of St. Nick (Gerard Butler) on Christmas day as he gets ready to deliver presents. He receives a last-minute letter from the Princess of Hearts (Eliza Riley) who requests a special present, her own special pet. Despite being warned of the twisted Wonderland by his reindeer, St. Nick goes on a musical journey to fulfill the princess's wish. But on arrival, he has to face the Christmas hating, Queen of Hearts (Emilie Clark) and try to teach her what Christmas is all about.

The main characters are St. Nick, Alice (Simone Ashley), Prancer (Mae Muller) and the Queen of Hearts! I love how the music is super catchy and fits the holiday theme, but it also gives you a little something to dance to. I love the fun combination of Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and Clement Clarke Moore's poem "Twas the Night Before Christmas." The story is well-developed. The animation is unique, especially since it is not a style you see much today; it's a line-drawn style that is reminiscent of older-style holiday films. I got to speak with Gerard Butler who plays St. Nick, and he told me about how special this movie is for him. It can definitely impact people who may have lost the Christmas spirit and remind them what Christmas is all about -- having a great time during the holidays with their families. Just like the Queen of Hearts who has lost her faith in the holidays and developed a large hatred for them is helped by St. Nick who allows her to feel better and lose her bitterness.

This film reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas and allows viewers to become immersed in the happiness and fun of Christmas.

I give The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It is streaming on Hulu beginning November 15, 2024.

By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


ALMOST CHRISTMAS STORY, AN

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
ALMOST CHRISTMAS STORY, AN       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
DISNEY+
Series: SHORT FILM, AGES 5-18
Topic - Family
Description - An Almost Christmas Story follows Moon, a curious young owl who unexpectedly finds himself stuck in a Christmas tree destined for Rockefeller Plaza. In his attempts to escape the bustling city, Moon befriends a lost little girl named Luna. Together, they embark on a heartwarming adventure, discovering the magic of the holiday season and forming an unlikely bond as they journey back home to their parents. This animated short film is inspired by the true events of a tiny owl rescued from the New York City's Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in 2020.

The talented voice cast includes Cary Christopher as Moon, newcomer Estella Madrigal as Luna, Jim Gaffigan as Papa Owl, Mamoudou Athie as Pelly, Alex Ross Perry as Dave The Dog, Gianna Joseph as Peaky, Phil Rosenthal as Punt, with Natasha Lyonne as Pat and John C. Reilly as The Folk Singer, who performs four songs in the short, two of which are original songs.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth reviews
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - An Almost Christmas Story is a delightful holiday short that perfectly embodies the magic of the season. This beautifully animated tale, directed by David Lowery and produced by Alfonso Cuar�n, captures the spirit of Christmas with heartwarming storytelling, impressive animation, and an engaging voice cast. It is a must-watch that will appeal to audiences of all ages, showcasing the timeless values of friendship, courage, and the power of home.

Inspired by true events, the storyline follows Moon, a young owl who finds himself accidentally trapped in a Christmas tree headed to Rockefeller Plaza. Amid the hustle and bustle of New York City, Moon meets Luna, a lost girl, and together they embark on an adventure filled with wonder, laughter, and discovery. Their bond deepens as they navigate challenges and find their way back to their families, learning valuable lessons along the way.

Cary Christopher brings a lively innocence to the voice of Moon, while newcomer Estella Madrigal's portrayal of Luna is filled with warmth and earnestness. The supporting cast, including Jim Gaffigan as the wise Papa Owl and Natasha Lyonne as Pat, adds depth and humor to the story. John C. Reilly's performances of original songs as The Folk Singer infuse the short with a charming musical touch, enhancing its festive atmosphere. The animation, handled by 88 Pictures, is vibrant and detailed, creating scenes that are both stunning and immersive. My favorite part of the film is the breathtaking use of color and lighting. From the glow of the Rockefeller Center lights to the gentle hues of winter, the visuals encapsulate the enchantment of the holiday season. The attention to detail in every frame adds an extra layer of joy, making it a visual treat.

The core message of An Almost Christmas Story emphasizes the importance of resilience and companionship. It's a positive reminder that, even in the most unexpected circumstances, acts of kindness and courage can light the way. The film promotes teamwork and caring behavior, with no inappropriate language or risky behaviors to worry about for younger viewers.

I give An Almost Christmas Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, with adults likely to enjoy it as well. It premieres on Disney+ on November 15, 2024, just in time to warm hearts for the holiday season.

By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 20
Runtime: 21 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


RED ONE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
RED ONE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
AMAZON PRIME
Series: FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - After Santa Claus (code name: Red One) is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world's most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I found myself going, "Ho Ho Ho" and "Ha Ha Ha," while watching the original Christmas movie, Red One. This hilarious, innovative film has a power cast that includes Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, J.K. Simmons, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka and more. It is full of action-packed adventure and comedy.

The storyline follows Jack O'Malley (Chris Evans), a thief who sells information on the black market. Unknowingly, a mysterious buyer recruits Jack to give up Santa Claus's whereabouts. The buyer kidnaps Santa, aka the Red One (J.K. Simmons), and plans to cancel Christmas by punishing everyone on the naughty list. Santa's bodyguard, Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), recruits Jack O'Malley to recover Santa before Christmas morning. It's up to Callum and Jack to save Christmas.

Red One has an incredible ensemble cast, including some of Hollywood's biggest stars. Dwayne Johnson brings his signature humor, heart, and action to the magical, larger-than-life role of Callum Drift. Chris Evans's sharp wit and undeniable chemistry with Dwayne Johnson make their unlikely partnership a movie highlight. The memorable performances of J.K. Simmons, Lucy Lou (Zoe), Kiernan Shipka (Gryla), Wesley Kimmel (Dylan), Kristofer Hivju (Krampus), Bonnie Hunt (Mrs. Claus) and Mary Elizabeth Ellis (Olivia) create a holiday adventure like no other. The director, Jake Kasdan, infuses the holiday movie genre with fresh, new, festive, funny, and heartwarming energy. He balances the high-octane action scenes with some tender moments, producing a fun and unforgettable holiday movie. The imaginative characters of Red One are brought to life through the film's CGI and costumes, which create an engaging, whimsical story packed with excitement.

Red One embraces the holiday spirit. The film's message is that everyone deserves a second chance and that you should always look for the good in people. Jack O'Malley becomes an unexpected hero by turning around his past. He gets a second chance to help save Santa and become a better dad. Even with all the action scenes, Red One highlights the importance of family and friends and cherishing those relationships.

I give Red One 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, adults. Red One opens in theaters on November 15, 2024.

By Calee N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Red One is a very action-packed, high-energy film. From talking polar bears to "The Rock" fighting a snowman, the film mixes humor, adventure, and fantasy all together in one. However, so much is happening at once that the plot gets confusing, making it difficult to keep up.

The plot takes us on a wild ride as Santa Claus gets captured by evil villains. A famous tracker and mythical forces team up to save Christmas. Along the way, they get slowed down by many "obstacles" (scary mythological creatures).

The main characters are Callum Drift (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson), Jack O'Malley (Chris Evans), Gryla (Kiernan Shipka), Zoe (Lucy Liu) and Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons). The two leads, Callum and Jack, have incredible chemistry and they bring distinctive and signature performances of their characters. Johnson and Evans are humorous, but their characters also share a deep life lesson. Callum needs to make a decision about who he wants to be in his life, by continuing to work for Santa or move on. Meanwhile, Jack is trying to repair his relationship with his son. The actors embody their characters well. The camerawork is shaky and messy. In the beginning of the film, I couldn't even focus on the screen for a while because of the camerawork. However, apart from that, the graphics are captivating and add an exciting touch to some scenes. For instance, when Callum, Jack and Santa are fighting the evil witch, she's pictured as this gigantic ogre, and she looks very believable. In terms of the plot, there is so much going on with the characters that, by the end, it feels like there's a lot of unfinished business with all of them. As a result, the events in the story are pretty random and don't add up. Next, the music adds depth by matching the various scenes in the film. For example, when they're going to the evil witch's land, the music becomes dark. Before that, it was lighthearted Christmas music. My favorite part of the film is when Callum very seriously says, "He knows when you're sleeping..." (referring to Santa). The tone in this scene is perfect and it's very hilarious.

The film's message is to choose who you want to be. Callum states, "We choose who we want to be every day, in both small and big decisions." This applies to everyone's life. Be aware that there is mild cursing in the film.

I give Red One 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Red One releases in theaters November 15, 2024.

By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


BLITZ

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
BLITZ       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
APPLE TV
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Steve McQueen's Blitz follows the epic journey of George (Elliott Heffernan), a 9-year-old boy in World War II London whose mother Rita (Saoirse Ronan) sends him to safety in the English countryside. George, defiant and determined to return home to his mom and his grandfather Gerald (Paul Weller) in East London, embarks on an adventure, only to find himself in immense peril, while a distraught Rita searches for her missing son.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Blitz is a very intense, immersive war-time drama right from the start. This movie has stunning performances, incredible visual effects and suspenseful scenes.

Blitz is based in Britain in 1940 during World War 2. Rita (Saoirse Ronan), a single mom living with her dad (Paul Weller), sends her nine-year-old son, George (Elliott Heffernan), to the countryside where she thinks he'll be safer away from the bombing occurring in London. Determined to get back to his family, George jumps off his train and embarks on a challenging journey back home as his mother desperately looks for him.

One word to describe Blitz is "jaw-dropping." For the majority of the film, I was at the edge of my seat wondering what could possibly go wrong next. I became very invested in what happened to the characters. However, this film isn't for everyone. At times, it can be very dark, violent, and sad, just as World War 2 was for many millions of people. The pacing and plot may seem somewhat choppy, but this is for a reason. In war, regardless of being on the winning or losing sides, everyone loses something. So, when something starts, it may abruptly end, as many of the scenes in this movie do. As I watched it, one thing I found very interesting was that the music, when the characters aren't singing, seems more fitting for a horror movie, which makes sense as the events during WWII were horrifying. When the characters are singing, which they often do, it feels more cheerful; displaying the hope and comfort that music brings to people. The acting is phenomenal. Saoirse Ronan gives an impactful performance with her beautiful singing voice as well as her fierceness for fighting for what she cares about most - her son! Elliott Heffernan outstandingly captures the defiant nature of his character and I sometimes forgot he is acting. The two of them perfectly portray a relationship between a single mother and her son.

Blitz highlights the importance of family, fighting for your beliefs, and having resilience during extremely difficult circumstances. This movie may not be fit for sensitive viewers as there are many depictions of death, violence, war, racism, and profanity and it is not targeted to young children.

I give Blitz 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on November 8 and streams on Apple TV+ beginning November 22, 2024.

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


VIEW, THE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
VIEW, THE
ALLI SADEGIANI
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - In 1980s Sweden, an immigrant boy embarks on a journey of self-discovery, identity and love, finding solace in video games and a secret friendship. As he navigates societal pressure, admiration for Prince, and a life-changing condition, he questions where true acceptance lies.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The View has all aspects of a great movie. It conveys a message to the audience despite being a silent film. This film could be really inspirational to kids and adults who are trying to discover themselves.

The story follows a young boy trying to find connections and belonging through a time where it's difficult for him to have a sense of belonging. He goes on a long journey where he is bullied and made fun of because of his appearances. Through his journey, he discovers himself and his true identity.

This is definitely my favorite film of the week! Its perfect for KIDS FIRST!I like the message of the film. It is about self-discovery and identity and has a huge connection to today's societal issues. The animation is outstanding; it reminds me of classic animated film classics like The Iron Giant or Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The background music is great and fits each scene, helping convey messages through music and emotions. There are also visual effects that convey messages associated with identity and self-discovery. The director adapted this film from a picture book and it is really extraordinary. It is self-funded and produced independently. My favorite scene is at the beginning - I wasn't expecting the background music and character to start the story right away, which was great.

The film's message is that not everyone is the same; being different is unique and desirable.

I give The View 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Hafsa H., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The View has all aspects of a great movie. It conveys a message to the audience despite being a silent film. This film could be really inspirational to kids and adults who are trying to discover themselves.

The story follows a young boy trying to find connections and belonging through a time where it's difficult for him to have a sense of belonging. He goes on a long journey where he is bullied and made fun of because of his appearances. Through his journey, he discovers himself and his true identity.

This is definitely my favorite film of the week! Its perfect for KIDS FIRST!I like the message of the film. It is about self-discovery and identity and has a huge connection to today's societal issues. The animation is outstanding; it reminds me of classic animated film classics like The Iron Giant or Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The background music is great and fits each scene, helping convey messages through music and emotions. There are also visual effects that convey messages associated with identity and self-discovery. The director adapted this film from a picture book and it is really extraordinary. It is self-funded and produced independently. My favorite scene is at the beginning - I wasn't expecting the background music and character to start the story right away, which was great.

The film's message is that not everyone is the same; being different is unique and desirable.

I give The View 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Hafsa H., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 18 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


JURASSIC PET 3

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
JURASSIC PET 3       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
ACE ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - When a shy young girl and her outgoing brother come across a mysterious egg, they are shocked when a dinosaur hatches from it. When it gets loose, they have to get to it before a documentary film crew does. Along the way, they meet an older man and barista who know more about where the dinosaur came from and together, they work to get it back to its home so it won't be exploited in our world.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Jurassic Pet 3 is an entertaining family movie that kept me laughing and on my toes until the end. I was immediately engaged with its realistic CGI effects, intriguing storyline and fun wardrobe.

The story opens with Vanessa (Marila Lombrozo) and Jeff (Brooks Ryan) committed to making a documentary about dinosaurs. Meanwhile, a young girl, Madison (Ava Torres) and her brother Ethan (Kyle Rangel) find an egg and are pleasantly surprised by what is inside. Could it be a real dinosaur? They soon find out the answer is yes but then, the dinosaur escapes. They enlist the help of Wendy (Sophie Procter) and Mortimer (Ben Hall) to track down the dinosaur to make sure it doesn't get into the hands of the documentary team before it's too late.

I was drawn in immediately with the realistic opening CGI. I felt like I was looking at actual dinosaurs and couldn't wait to see how the story developed. The writers created a gripping storyline where I wasn't sure what was next in the journey to find the dinosaur. And at the same time, I couldn't stop laughing. The cast has fun on-screen chemistry and are very natural in their delivery. One of my favorite parts is the scene where they go to the theater and get in with a silly made up story. The wardrobe really caught my eye. I love Wendy's outfits as they perfectly match her bold personality. And Madison's couture at the beginning of the movie really captures her as a caring and curious kid. There are quite a few short falls in this movie - some scenes drag on and are not truly needed for the overall storyline. Also, as the movie develops, the CGI decreases in quality and it doesn't quite live up to what it is at the beginning.

There are a few important messages in the film - nature should be preserved and animals should be handled with care at all costs. Even when a situation seems impossible, if you work together, you can solve any problem with a little humor and fun.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 3 out 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It releases on VOD and streaming November 19, 2024.

By Adele Rayna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

I really enjoyed Jurassic Pet 3 because it is a fun and adventurous movie that kept me hooked from start to finish!

The story begins when siblings Madison (Ava Torres) and Ethan (Kyle Rangel) receive a mysterious egg from a man who is hit by a car. The man tells them to deliver the egg to Wendy Jenkins (Sophie Proctor), but before they can do that, the egg hatches into a baby dinosaur they call Spike, who escapes. Wendy, the mystery man, Madison, and Ethan work together to find the dinosaur and bring him back through the portal to the dinosaur realm where he belongs. They quickly realize they have to hide Spike from the public, and things get more complicated when a film crew comes to town and captures him. The crew wants to exploit Spike for profit, which creates a lot of problems for the four of them.

One of the best things about Jurassic Pet is the adventure. It's not just about finding a dinosaur; it's about keeping Spike hidden and safe while figuring out how to get him back to his home in the dinosaur realm. Our heroes have to think quickly to keep Spike a secret from the townspeople and the film crew who want to use him in their movie. There's a lot of suspense as they try to hide him, especially when Spike gets bigger and harder to keep out of sight. The adventure really picks up when they have to figure out how to get Spike back to his world before it's too late. The idea of a dinosaur realm adds a fun twist, suggesting that dinosaurs didn't go extinct--they have their own world to return to. The mystery of this hidden world keeps the adventure fresh and exciting, making it feel like you're discovering something new with the characters. The background music is great and really stands out. My favorite part is the cliffhanger at the end.

Jurassic Pet 3 is a fun and lighthearted movie that blends adventure, humor, and a little bit of mystery. It has a lot of heart. If you enjoy movies with creative storylines, this is the film for you. The movie's message is that all living things deserve respect.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It will be released on VOD and streaming on November 19, 2024. I hope you enjoy it!

By Ariel K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Jurassic Pet 3 is a delightful adventure that captures the imagination with its heartwarming story and engaging characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the film's blend of humor and excitement, which kept me entertained from start to finish.

The film follows a shy girl named Madison (Ava Torres) and her outgoing brother Ethan (Kyle Rangel) who stumble upon a mysterious egg in their backyard. To their astonishment, the egg hatches into a small dinosaur, sparking a whirlwind of chaos and excitement. As the siblings try to care for their new pet, they must also evade a team of ambitious scientists determined to capture the creature for their own nefarious purposes. With time running out, Madison and Ethan embark on a thrilling journey to return the dinosaur to its rightful home, navigating obstacles and learning valuable lessons along the way.

What sets Jurassic Pet 3 apart is its charming portrayal of sibling dynamics and personal growth. Madison's character arc is particularly resonant; her journey from timid to courageous is beautifully depicted. The film deftly balances lighthearted moments with deeper themes of friendship and responsibility. The special effects used to bring the dinosaur to life are impressive, creating a believable and adorable creature that audiences will root for. The humor is cleverly woven throughout, appealing to both children and adults, making it a family-friendly film that invites laughter and wonder. Additionally, the soundtrack complements the action perfectly, enhancing the emotional beats without overshadowing the story. Overall, Jurassic Pet 3 is an engaging and heartwarming film that combines adventure, humor, and a touch of nostalgia, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next escapade.

The film conveys the message that courage and teamwork can help overcome any challenge.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 through 12. This film releases on VOD and streaming on November 19, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Roar, get ready to be amazed! Jurassic Pet has come back in Jurassic Pet 3, but we have a problem, another dinosaur has entered earth. What will they do?

The story follows a shy girl, Madison (Ava Torres), with her outstanding brother (Kyle Rangel) who see a man (Ben Hall) get hit by a car and give a bag to the kids with a dinosaur egg inside. Before you know it, the egg hatches a dinosaur. Meanwhile, a very confident film crew comes along, looking for dinosaurs and claiming that they will have a special event.

This movie is very funny, energetic and suspenseful. When I watched it, I was at the edge of my seat trying to guess what would happen next. I love the sets by Steve Maddox and the costumes by Valerie Parker are outstanding. I love the CGI and how the dinosaurs are animated. The acting is quite real and expressive, especially Ava Torres as Madison. The movie is so funny, especially when the two men are interviewed. Oddly enough the scene when the car hits a man and the driver starts panicking, is hilarious. The tree house scene is my favorite part because this is where the egg hatches and that is where a big chunk of comedy happens. I also like the film crew because they make the movie funnier and very interesting.

The film's message is that even though you like something, if it does not belong here you still have to let it go.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This movie will be available on streaming and VOD beginning November 19, 2024.

By Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


MYSTERY OF THE KEEPER

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
MYSTERY OF THE KEEPER
ELINA MYSHANYCH
Series: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - In the new short film by a young director, the experience of war is embodied in an unusual genre - fantasy. The fate of Ukraine and the world is in the girls' hands. Schoolgirl Slava faces trials and acts despite everything. And the Keeper, who embodies our nature, magical, fragile - and eternally alive, and therefore invincible. High School Student short, from Ukraine, by Elina Myshanych, age 14. Dialogue in Ukrainian; English subtitles.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Mystery of the Keeper intertwines two stories, both with their own complications. I enjoyed the intrigue of not knowing what would happen on either front.

The story of this high school student-made film follows two girls whose friendship is tested when they both like the same guy. Unexpectedly one finds a magical crystal that maintains harmony in the world. The crystal is lost when one jealous girl tosses it into the snow and war breaks out around the world. However, the girls eventually collaborate to find the lost crystal to save the world.

High school friendships can be pretty rocky, especially when two girls have a crush on the same guy, which happens here. Fortunately, the girls are able to get beyond that and attend to the more meaningful task of finding the lost crystal in order to restore harmony in the world. The camera work is quite good, as is the audio recording and the girls are adorable. The editing is a bit rough at times - some of the transitions between scenes are quite abrupt. It is confusing when the girl who finds the crystal goes to bed and sees herself finding the crystal once again. I guess that was her dream. I like the part when one girl lies down in the snow, has an epiphany and turns around, reaches through the snow and pulls out the crystal. I also like the ending when peace returns to their lives and spring brings an abundance of new growth in the woods and wildflowers bloom.

The film's message is that strong friendships are those who stand by your side in good and bad times.

I give Mystery of the Keeper 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mystery of the Keeper intertwines two stories, both with their own complications. I enjoyed the intrigue of not knowing what would happen on either front.

The story of this high school student-made film follows two girls whose friendship is tested when they both like the same guy. Unexpectedly one finds a magical crystal that maintains harmony in the world. The crystal is lost when one jealous girl tosses it into the snow and war breaks out around the world. However, the girls eventually collaborate to find the lost crystal to save the world.

High school friendships can be pretty rocky, especially when two girls have a crush on the same guy, which happens here. Fortunately, the girls are able to get beyond that and attend to the more meaningful task of finding the lost crystal in order to restore harmony in the world. The camera work is quite good, as is the audio recording and the girls are adorable. The editing is a bit rough at times - some of the transitions between scenes are quite abrupt. It is confusing when the girl who finds the crystal goes to bed and sees herself finding the crystal once again. I guess that was her dream. I like the part when one girl lies down in the snow, has an epiphany and turns around, reaches through the snow and pulls out the crystal. I also like the ending when peace returns to their lives and spring brings an abundance of new growth in the woods and wildflowers bloom.

The film's message is that strong friendships are those who stand by your side in good and bad times.

I give Mystery of the Keeper 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


SAVING CHRISTMAS

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
SAVING CHRISTMAS       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
ZITRO PRODUCTIONS
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 12-18
Topic - Holiday
Description - Tired of family chores, and only caring about his gifts, a teenager wishes a little too hard and accidentally makes Christmas disappear! As the only one who remembers its existence, it's now up to him to bring the holiday back to the world and learn the true meaning of Christmas.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Saving Christmas is pure entertainment and kept a smile on my face until the end! It could easily be the next holiday classic. I like the juxtaposition of funny moments, with more deep and heartwarming ones. All of the visuals and acting are engaging and definitely draw you in.

The story starts with a glimpse at a typical teenager, Nick (Ricardo Ortiz), who is annoyed that his computer isn't working and he could care less about Christmas. Meanwhile, his family is passionately preparing for Christmas and, despite Nick's lack of enthusiasm, they make him participate. Nick is shocked while putting up the lights and awakens only to discover that his family has drastically changed and Christmas has disappeared. With tables turned and as the only one who remembers its existence, Nick enlists the help of his best friend Ben (Josh Zaharia) to help him save Christmas and bring the magic of the holiday back to life for his family.

This film definitely kept my attention and I stayed curious wondering what was next in this crazy adventure. Richard Ortiz, as Nick, has great comedic timing and is very relatable. I couldn't help but root for him in his fight to save Christmas. It is so touching the great lengths he goes to get his family into the holiday spirit. The camera work is terrific with seamless transitions that make it easy to watch. The sets and props look so realistic and typical of everyday life by a middle class American family. I also enjoyed the costumes, especially when they dress up for Christmas as each outfit s personalized for each member of the family. My absolute favorite costumes are his sister Jojo's outfits and her hair styles bas they perfectly match her personality. We quickly see the fun relationship that Jojo and Nick have as well as the bond between all of the family members .I love how Nick uses simple items like pom-poms and candy canes all around and his family loves them. It really shows how much he adores his family and the strong bond between them. I love seeing the actors get into their different characters both with and without Christmas. The one shortfall is that the supporting actors didn't quite stand up to the dynamics of the main characters. Also, I was not so fond of the background music in some scenes and in a few spots the lip movements are out of sync with the person speaking.

The film's message is to always be grateful for what you have and to appreciate loved ones. It highlights the true meaning of Christmas and how traditions bring us joy. It also reminds us to never give up when we are faced with a challenge, especially if we are fighting for something we truly believe in.

I give Saving Christmas 4 out of 5 and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This film premieres on VOD and streaming on November 5, 2024.

By Adele B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

Saving Christmas has everything I would expect from a Christmas movie, and some things that I didn't. Humor, charm, and the holiday spirit give this movie an original Christmas feel, but the mystery and dual reality make it enjoyable not just in December, but throughout the year as well.

Nick Baker (Ricardo Ortiz) is a 16-year-old boy whose only goals in life are to make movies, and open presents. So when his Mom (Casey James) tosses a thousand and one Christmas chores his way, he wishes for Christmas to disappear. To his surprise, it actually does, and with it, all the joy and opportunities Christmas provides, drastically altering the lives of those around him. Now, as the sole person who remembers the holiday, Nick must find a way to restore the season, and return Christmas to its former glory.

My favorite character in the film is Nick's best friend, Ben (Josh Zaharia). No matter what crazy idea Nick has, such as Christmas, Ben tries to find the positive in it. When Nick is late for a film group meeting, Ben tries to reason with the other members, telling them that Nick must have a reason for being late, and not to kick him out of the club. Nick's family is quite interesting. Each member of their clan brings something different to the table. When Christmas is forgotten, the way they change is fun to watch. Nick's younger sister, Jojo (Ella Wejr / Ellexis Wejr), goes from being a regular girl who loves the atmosphere of Christmas, to a professional, business women who is president of the debate club. Some parts of the film are kind of hard to understand, and make it slightly confusing. For example, in the beginning, we see Nick having the time of his life on his computer, but the montage ends and we see him sleeping at his desk. At first I thought that he only dreamt the whole thing, but later we learn that he often works during the night, as it "brings out his creativity." Some parts are kind of corny, but nothing that detracts it as a good holiday movie.

The film's message is that it is better to give than receive. Before Nick erases Christmas, he is on the receiving team when it comes to gifts. But once the holiday is gone, he sees how he took the kindness of others and everything they did for him for granted. Be forewarned that there is a bit of profanity in this film.

I give Saving Christmas 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Saving Christmas flies into theaters on Nov 5, 2024.

By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


WIZARDS BEYOND WAVERLY PLACE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
WIZARDS BEYOND WAVERLY PLACE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
DISNEY CHANNEL
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Wizards Beyond Waverly Place is a spin-off and sequel to Wizards of Waverly Place. The series follows an adult Justin Russo, living a normal life with his wife and two sons in Staten Island, until his sister Alex asks for help with a young wizard-in-training named Billie. He revives his magical skills in order to mentor the young girl, while balancing living a normal life and safeguarding the Wizard World's future.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wizards Beyond Waverly Place is a comedic series, full of mystery and magic. I really like this show - it is fun and entertaining, while having a nostalgic feeling to it.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place is set years later from the original Disney channel show, Wizards of Waverly Place. It stars Janice LeAnn Brown (Billie) who is brought to the Russo house by Alex Russo (Selene Gomez). Alex leaves her there in hopes that her brother, Justin (David Henrie) will help her to control her magic; she has a big heart, but can sometimes get carried away. Justin must learn to come to terms with who he is while helping Billie navigate this wonderful but dangerous gift that they share.

I really enjoy how this show feels so nostalgic. Growing up as a Disney kid, I constantly watched the Disney channel and loved Wizards of Waverly Place. Watching this spin-off reminded me of that same feeling I used to have when I was younger while watching the Disney channel. There is also the live audience aspect - hearing the laughs at the funny parts, and the "oohs" at the intense moments really adds to the show. It absolutely captures the essence of the old Disney channel, while still feeling new and fresh. Additionally, the storyline is enjoyable. Although this connects to an old show, it does not feel old. Each episode follows Billie's journey and viewers get to experience her magic and watch her learn to navigate all of her skills in the real world. I particularly enjoyed the first episode when we get to see all of Billie's tricks. They take us back to the lair, where all the magic happens! Another standout in this show are the characters' relationships with one another. For instance, Billie and Justin, despite just meeting, instantly form a tight bond. Justin acts as almost an older brother figure, helping Billie deal with her magic. There are many times when Billie doesn't know how to control all of her powers, and just wants to use them for good. However, Justin teaches her that just because you have the ability to do something, doesn't mean it's always the right time to exercise that power.

The show's message is to never give up on the people you care about.

I give Wizards Beyond Waverly Place 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18. You can watch Wizards Beyond Waverly Place on the Disney Channel beginning October 29, 2024.

By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 18

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: TV


TE AMO PAPA

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
TE AMO PAPA
DAVE BROWN
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - A 12-year-old girl tries to reconnect with her deceased father by following in his footsteps to become a champion performance sword artist.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I enjoyed Te Amo Pap� because of its message and the emotions it evoked, even though it made me sad. I enjoyed when the girl hears and sees her deceased father and he tells her everything is okay.

The storyline is about a 12-year-old girl, Ruby (Gemma Pakzad), whose father (Justin Lopez) has passed away and she is trying to make him proud by getting into a sword combat team, following in his footsteps, but she just does not fit in. In the end she realizes her dad will be proud of her no matter what.

This film is really great and I think that even teens would enjoy it. The main characters are Abuelita (Maria Candeleria), Ruby, Papa and Pippa (Bricine Mitchell). The storyline really kept me interested and I could really relate to Ruby's emotions. I think some children will relate to Ruby and her grief -- this will provide a great message for them. But, you don't have to have lost a parent for this to make an emotional impact. The film flows seamlessly and it's easy to relate to the characters. I especially enjoyed how the girl's attitude changes when she realizes that she does not have to win anything or be the best in order for her dad to love and be proud of her.

The camera work is very good, as is the audio recording and the editing. The sets look realistic. I especially like the shrine to the deceased family members, with skulls and marigolds, and paper cuts-outs (papel picado) to honor them.

The film's message is that you don't have to be the best to make your parents proud. It also reminds us that our family member is always with you, even after they are gone. Note that it addresses the topic about death which may be disturbing to some.

I give Te Amo Pap� 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Janie R. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed Te Amo Pap� because of its message and the emotions it evoked, even though it made me sad. I enjoyed when the girl hears and sees her deceased father and he tells her everything is okay.

The storyline is about a 12-year-old girl, Ruby (Gemma Pakzad), whose father (Justin Lopez) has passed away and she is trying to make him proud by getting into a sword combat team, following in his footsteps, but she just does not fit in. In the end she realizes her dad will be proud of her no matter what.

This film is really great and I think that even teens would enjoy it. The main characters are Abuelita (Maria Candeleria), Ruby, Papa and Pippa (Bricine Mitchell). The storyline really kept me interested and I could really relate to Ruby's emotions. I think some children will relate to Ruby and her grief -- this will provide a great message for them. But, you don't have to have lost a parent for this to make an emotional impact. The film flows seamlessly and it's easy to relate to the characters. I especially enjoyed how the girl's attitude changes when she realizes that she does not have to win anything or be the best in order for her dad to love and be proud of her.

The camera work is very good, as is the audio recording and the editing. The sets look realistic. I especially like the shrine to the deceased family members, with skulls and marigolds, and paper cuts-outs (papel picado) to honor them.

The film's message is that you don't have to be the best to make your parents proud. It also reminds us that our family member is always with you, even after they are gone. Note that it addresses the topic about death which may be disturbing to some.

I give Te Amo Pap� 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Janie R. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


GRANITE AND MARBLE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GRANITE AND MARBLE
GRANT VILLALUZ
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 8 TO 18
Topic - Family
Description - Granite and Marble is a bit weird but I like that it has an unexpected twist at the end.

A "charmed" young boy races against the clock to win the love and friendship of his angry and cold-hearted adoptive teenage sister before a major Sacramento event concludes or risks being turned back into his true self.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Granite and Marble is a bit weird but I like that it has an unexpected twist at the end.

The storyline follows a man (Stanley Marcellus Simons) who has recently adopted a young boy (Silas Simons) into his family, but his daughter and the adoptive teenage sister (Sayri C. Sanabria) is less than welcoming to her new brother. However, once she finds out that she and he share something in common - their relationship take a complete turnabout.

The camera work is quite excellent, as is the audio recording. The lighting falls a bit short, especially on the dad, due to his dark skin. The set is sparse but adequate. The transitions between scenes are a bit quick and seem to force the plot forward without a lot of development. The disconnect between the two kids is exacerbated when the sister tells the boy that she hates him and pushes him to the floor. This gets weirder later when the two of them have big reveal, which kind of comes out of nowhere. One minute they're fighting, the next minute, after watching a report on TV, they reveal their secret to each other and we take a trip down the rabbit hole. I have to say that the acting lacks believability; there doesn't seem to be a real connection between any of the characters, even when the boy and girl have a discussion which completely changes their relationship. This is my favorite part though, when they both turn into their true forms. The dad isn't shocked when he finds them, because he was forewarned by the fortune teller.

The film's message is to never judge someone before getting to know them first.

I give Granite and Marble 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Granite and Marble is a bit weird but I like that it has an unexpected twist at the end.

The storyline follows a man (Stanley Marcellus Simons) who has recently adopted a young boy (Silas Simons) into his family, but his daughter and the adoptive teenage sister (Sayri C. Sanabria) is less than welcoming to her new brother. However, once she finds out that she and he share something in common - their relationship take a complete turnabout.

The camera work is quite excellent, as is the audio recording. The lighting falls a bit short, especially on the dad, due to his dark skin. The set is sparse but adequate. The transitions between scenes are a bit quick and seem to force the plot forward without a lot of development. The disconnect between the two kids is exacerbated when the sister tells the boy that she hates him and pushes him to the floor. This gets weirder later when the two of them have big reveal, which kind of comes out of nowhere. One minute they're fighting, the next minute, after watching a report on TV, they reveal their secret to each other and we take a trip down the rabbit hole. I have to say that the acting lacks believability; there doesn't seem to be a real connection between any of the characters, even when the boy and girl have a discussion which completely changes their relationship. This is my favorite part though, when they both turn into their true forms. The dad isn't shocked when he finds them, because he was forewarned by the fortune teller.

The film's message is to never judge someone before getting to know them first.

I give Granite and Marble 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Hafsa H. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10. minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


LOST ON A MOUNTAIN IN MAINE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
LOST ON A MOUNTAIN IN MAINE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
BLUE FOX ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Twelve-year-old Donn Fendler becomes trapped on a treacherous mountain when a fast-moving storm separates him from his family. With no food or proper clothing, he begins a desperate fight for survival in the unforgiving wilderness of northern Maine.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed Lost on a Mountain in Maine. This inspiring story of survival has strong acting and moving messages with beautiful cinematography and landscapes.

This movie is based on the true story from 1939 about twelve-year-old Donn Fendler (Luke David Blumm). After getting separated from his hiking party, Donn gets lost on the highest mountain in Maine. All the odds are against him, so can he survive long enough to be found?

Donn's story was written about in a book with the same name as this film and the book inspired the making of this movie. Two of the producers were very fond of it growing up. One of them, Ryan Cook, read the book in fourth grade and was lucky enough to receive a visit from Donn in his class, and from then on, he wanted to see a movie made from this story. The other producer, Dick Boyce, developed a fondness of the book from his father who tracked Donn's story on the radio when it was happening. When a film had yet to be made, Cook and Boyce decided to make it themselves, and here we are.Throughout the film, we get to see actual footage of interviews of people involved in Donn's search - Donn's family and, eventually, Donn himself, with each video marking somewhat of a new chapter in the movie. There are quite a few tips that I learned from this movie that will be helpful if I ever find myself in the same situation as Donn. Luke David Blumm as Donn Fendler portrays Donn so well; I could really feel all his emotions. Paul Sparks, as his father, and Griffin Wallace, as his twin brother perfectly portray their roles. All of them together create an incredible tension that really drew me in emotionally to the story.

This movie has many messages about the values of family and being resourceful. There are some risky behaviors portrayed in this movie that young children shouldn't try to replicate and some scenes that might be scary for young children.

I give Lost on a Mountain in Maine 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on November 1, 2024.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


MAX & THE MIDKNIGHTS

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
MAX & THE MIDKNIGHTS       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
NICKELODEON
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - Based on the best-selling children's books by acclaimed author and cartoonist Lincoln Peirce (Big Nate), this show follows an adventurous 10-year-old girl named Max who embarks on a quest with her newfound friends to save the Kingdom of Byjovia from ominous forces. Throughout the series, Max leads the rest of the Midknights on challenging quests filled with all-new original songs. After King Gastley steals the throne and forces an unjust rule on the Kingdom of Byjovia, Max must come to the rescue to overthrow the power-hungry foe. With her friends and Uncle Budrick by her side, Max's courageous spirit won't back down no matter how difficult the quest gets.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This hilarious and action-packed animated series is an absolute blast for viewers of all ages! Max & The Midknights brings medieval adventure to life. I love how the show combines humor, excitement, and a heartfelt message in a way that captivates both kids and adults. The high-quality animation and clever storytelling make this a must-watch.

Max & The Midknights follows the journey of Max (Blu del Barrio), an adventurous ten-year-old girl with a big dream: becoming a knight. She leads her friends on thrilling adventures in a fantastical medieval kingdom -- battling zombies, outsmarting evil sorcerers, and even taming dragons. Max's determination and bravery drive the story, making each episode full of surprises and laughs, while teaching valuable lessons about courage and friendship.

The voice acting is top-notch, with a cast that brings the characters to life in a truly dynamic way -- including Blu del Barrio as Max, Melissa Villase�or as Millie, Zeno Robinson as Simon and Caleb Yen as Kevyn. Max is voiced with a perfect mix of sass and sincerity, making her a standout lead character. The 3D animation is stunning, especially during the action sequences, which are full of sword fights, magical duels, and explosive moments. The world of Max & The Midknights is colorful, immersive, and full of detail, making each scene feel like a mini-movie. One of my favorite parts is the series' use of humor. The show is genuinely funny, with plenty of clever jokes that will make both kids and adults laugh. Max's imagination also plays a huge role in the series, adding another layer of fun as she dreams up wild and creative solutions to the challenges she and her friends face. The combination of humor, heart, and action makes it an exciting adventure from start to finish.

The message of Max & The Midknights is about pursuing your true passions, no matter what others may say. Max is determined to become a knight, despite those around her doubting her abilities because she's a girl. The show encourages kids to follow their dreams and not let anyone tell them they can't achieve their goals.

I give Max & The Midknights 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, though older audiences and adults will enjoy it as well. This fantastic series makes its television debut on Wednesday, October 30 at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon.

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: TV


BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER , THE

KIDS FIRST ENDORSED
BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER , THE       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
LIONSGATE FILMS
Series: FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - The Herdmans are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, they steal, they bully...and now they've hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (The Chosen) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are in over their heads, especially against a town that wants them to kick the Herdmans out. But the play's mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson, Platte F. Clark and Darin McDaniel.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - In Emmanuel it's Christmas time and it's time for their annual pageant. But, the Herdmans family, a group of bullying kids led by their older sister Imogene (Beatrice Schneider), ruin everything they touch, decide that they will be part of the pageant. Will it be the best pageant ever?

The storyline is about a town preparing for their much awaited 75th Christmas pageant. Unfortunately, the organizer, Mrs. Armstrong (Meriam Bernstein) breaks both her legs, so Grace (Judy Greer) volunteers to replace her to organize the pageant. Hoping to get free snacks, the Herdmans force their way into the pageant, creating chaos all around them and putting Grace under a lot of pressure to replace them. Grace is facing a difficult time to get the pageant going and the final results leave everyone speechless.

I love every character in this movie, especially the Herdmans - Beatrice Schneider as Imogene, Mason D. Nelligan as Ralph, Matthew Lamb as Claude, Evan Wood as Leroy, Essek Moore as Ollie, Kynlee Heiman as Gladys. The main characters are almost all kids and their performances as bullies are outstanding, and we also see their vulnerability eventually. There are so many funny moments like when Gladiys jumps and scares the three boys. This movie is based on a best-selling book by Barbara Robinson. Dallas Jenkins's direction shines in the selection of locations, sets, d�cor and acting. The film does switch eras between current and the 1920s.There are a couple of important messages in this movie - a reminder that we should not judge a book by its cover and that everyone deserves a chance to prove what they can do when they feel supported. Be aware that this is a Christian oriented movie presenting the nativity in a very refreshing way. Will it become another recurring Christmas movie? Let's hope so!

I give The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It is available in theaters beginning November 8, 2024. Check it out.

By Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

I like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It is about family, the true meaning of Christmas, helping others in need and is heartfelt and funny at times.

The storyline is about the Herdmans who are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, bully, and now they've hijacked the town Christmas pageant. The film is based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson. It follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for food and walk away with the lead roles in the town's Christmas pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time, and she and her daughter, Beth (Molly Belle Wright), along with her husband Bob (Pete Holmes), are in over their heads, especially against a town that wants them to kick the Herdmans out. But the play's mischievous stars might just end up teaching the community the true meaning of Christmas.

This movie is full of heart and, although the antics of the Herdmans are outrageous, the behaviors of the church children and adults are humorously familiar. It is an entertaining and heartwarming movie for the whole family at Christmas time. It highlights the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ in the most beautiful nativity scene. The costumes and the nativity scene are exceptional. The setting makes it look just like a barn the night Jesus was born. My favorite part is the ending when the children are acting out the play and the nativity scene. The community comes together and realizes what is really important on Christmas. Judy Greer, as Grace, gives a very believable performance as the mother and director of the church performance. She is patient and loving with her community and all of the children. The children in the film are Charlie (Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez), Imogene (Beatrice Schneider), Claude (Matthew Lamb) Gladys (Kynlee Heiman), Ralph (Mason Nelligan). Speaking of the children, they all give fantastic performances, especially Molly Belle Write as Beth. She is funny and teaches the importance of Christmas and being kind to others. There is so much chemistry between these characters that I could feel it as I watched the film. They all connect to being there for each other, their church and community.

The film's message centers on how people should not be judged, how redemption is important, and how tradition can be altered by perspective. It is important for children to learn the lesson of not judging a book by its cover, and this story does just that.

I give The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in theaters beginning November 8, 2024.

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

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


RICARDO RIVERA AND THE MINES OF MONTEZUMA

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
RICARDO RIVERA AND THE MINES OF MONTEZUMA
KERRYN NEGUS
Series: INDIE SHORT, AES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - In a forgotten roadside mine attraction, a daydreaming tour guide answers the call to adventure to thwart treasure hunters and uncover the truth behind a mysterious artifact: The Mirror of Montezuma.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really enjoyed the student made short film, Ricardo Rivera and the Mines of Montezuma because of its humor and suspense.

The storyline follows Ricky, a tour guide, who has a group of people he is guiding, but they do not find it interesting. Then, a girl named Tara tells him that there is a group of other tour guides which are not actually tour guides, in fact they are there to take an artifact. Tara and Ricky go on an adventure to get the artifact back.

I really enjoyed the story, especially when they have a fight to try and get the artifact back. It is really funny and suspenseful. The camera work is quite good, as is the audio recording and editing. . I really like the scene where they zoom into the glowing stone. The locations are well selected; my favorite is the hall that is decorated with Christmas lights. The scene when the Christmas lights do not light up is funny. I also enjoyed the little fight scene. Yes, one special effect that is pretty cool is when Ricky is looking at the crystal in the beginning. It is not believable, but that is the intention. I really enjoyed the character Ricky (Ray Cuevas) and how he develops. In the beginning he does not know who he truly is; at the end he finally figures it out. I appreciate the director's (Jackson Huffman) work. My favorite part is the adventure and the battle they have to get the artifact back.

The film's message is about how, even if something may seem boring, it may have an exciting twist to it. Be aware that there is a fight scene; it is not bloody or realistic.

I give Ricardo Rivera and the Mines of Montezuma 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed the student made short film, Ricardo Rivera and the Mines of Montezuma because of its humor and suspense.

The storyline follows Ricky, a tour guide, who has a group of people he is guiding, but they do not find it interesting. Then, a girl named Tara tells him that there is a group of other tour guides which are not actually tour guides, in fact they are there to take an artifact. Tara and Ricky go on an adventure to get the artifact back.

I really enjoyed the story, especially when they have a fight to try and get the artifact back. It is really funny and suspenseful. The camera work is quite good, as is the audio recording and editing. . I really like the scene where they zoom into the glowing stone. The locations are well selected; my favorite is the hall that is decorated with Christmas lights. The scene when the Christmas lights do not light up is funny. I also enjoyed the little fight scene. Yes, one special effect that is pretty cool is when Ricky is looking at the crystal in the beginning. It is not believable, but that is the intention. I really enjoyed the character Ricky (Ray Cuevas) and how he develops. In the beginning he does not know who he truly is; at the end he finally figures it out. I appreciate the director's (Jackson Huffman) work. My favorite part is the adventure and the battle they have to get the artifact back.

The film's message is about how, even if something may seem boring, it may have an exciting twist to it. Be aware that there is a fight scene; it is not bloody or realistic.

I give Ricardo Rivera and the Mines of Montezuma 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


GALACTIC CAT AND THE SPELL OF TIME

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
GALACTIC CAT AND THE SPELL OF TIME
DREAMBOX PRODUCOES
Series: FOREIGN FEATURE, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Gato Galactico receives a pocket watch as a gift from his father, made by his great-grandfather Pedro Pontual, the former watchmaker from Cron�polis, a small village where his family's ancestors came from. However, without finding a battery that fits the strange clock, Gato runs away to Cron�polis to look for someone who can make it work. Upon arriving at the location, Gato is faced with a bizarre scenario: in the first minute of every hour, the entire village is completely frozen in time. Frightened, Gato tries to leave, but the city's exits are blocked by a macabre invisible barrier.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This movie takes a lot of twists and turns between time travel, magical beings and a young man that saves the day for a town lost in time.

Gato Galactico, known as Roni (Ronaldo de Azevedo), receives a pocket watch made by his great-grandfather, Pedro Pontual (Blota Filho), the former watchmaker from Cron�polis. However, there is no battery for it, so Gato runs away to Cron�polis to look for a battery. Upon arriving, Roni learns that the entire village is completely frozen in time once an hour. Roni tries to escape but can't. Meanwhile, he is befriended by Pepe (Erick Torres) and Lisa (Luiza Mezadri), who reveal the legend of the Phantom of Time. Perpetuo (Daniel Infantini) is responsible for the curse and the only way to defeat him is with the watch that Roni has. The kids join forces and when they finally repair the clock and imprison the ghost, the spell is undone and a big surprise is revealed.

This film has a lot of depth, a few heroes and one nasty villain. It's a twisty little tale with a young man who undertakes a big adventure, is befriended by some young people and learns an important lesson about friendship, bravery, and teamwork.

The film is well constructed and lead us on a fantastical adventure. The ghost, Perpetuo, is extra creepy with his distorted face, dark teeth, long nails and tongue movements. Although Roni is pretty disrespectful to his parents at the beginning, his attitude definitely changes as the film develops and he steps up to the plate as a hero. The camera work is outstanding, as is the audio track, the locations and sets. The costumes vary according to the location, wearing ancient clothing in Cronopolis and contemporary clothing in current day. The setting in his home is very contemporary with books, a computer, and a tablet and quite 18th century looking in the town in Cronopolis. The background music is well selected and when the clock chimes and everyone freezes, there is complete silence. I commend the special effects coordinator, Rafael Mancini, for making the magic elements seem believable, eye-catching, and entertaining.

The film's message is about believing in yourself and not being afraid to seek the truth. Friendship and the importance of family are also great messages of this film. Be forewarned that there are scary parts showing potential danger to children. For example, the ghost has a machine that turns children and humans into dolls. There is a child yelling, "Help me, help me," because he is caught by the ghost. There is some mild profanity.

give this film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Junior R. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This movie takes a lot of twists and turns between time travel, magical beings and a young man that saves the day for a town lost in time.

Gato Galactico, known as Roni (Ronaldo de Azevedo), receives a pocket watch made by his great-grandfather, Pedro Pontual (Blota Filho), the former watchmaker from Cron�polis. However, there is no battery for it, so Gato runs away to Cron�polis to look for a battery. Upon arriving, Roni learns that the entire village is completely frozen in time once an hour. Roni tries to escape but can't. Meanwhile, he is befriended by Pepe (Erick Torres) and Lisa (Luiza Mezadri), who reveal the legend of the Phantom of Time. Perpetuo (Daniel Infantini) is responsible for the curse and the only way to defeat him is with the watch that Roni has. The kids join forces and when they finally repair the clock and imprison the ghost, the spell is undone and a big surprise is revealed.

This film has a lot of depth, a few heroes and one nasty villain. It's a twisty little tale with a young man who undertakes a big adventure, is befriended by some young people and learns an important lesson about friendship, bravery, and teamwork.

The film is well constructed and lead us on a fantastical adventure. The ghost, Perpetuo, is extra creepy with his distorted face, dark teeth, long nails and tongue movements. Although Roni is pretty disrespectful to his parents at the beginning, his attitude definitely changes as the film develops and he steps up to the plate as a hero. The camera work is outstanding, as is the audio track, the locations and sets. The costumes vary according to the location, wearing ancient clothing in Cronopolis and contemporary clothing in current day. The setting in his home is very contemporary with books, a computer, and a tablet and quite 18th century looking in the town in Cronopolis. The background music is well selected and when the clock chimes and everyone freezes, there is complete silence. I commend the special effects coordinator, Rafael Mancini, for making the magic elements seem believable, eye-catching, and entertaining.

The film's message is about believing in yourself and not being afraid to seek the truth. Friendship and the importance of family are also great messages of this film. Be forewarned that there are scary parts showing potential danger to children. For example, the ghost has a machine that turns children and humans into dolls. There is a child yelling, "Help me, help me," because he is caught by the ghost. There is some mild profanity.

give this film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Junior R. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: FeatureFilm


LIGHT OF PIP, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
LIGHT OF PIP, THE
KEN MERRITT
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - Against her mother's better judgment, an eight-year-old girl befriends a lonely homeless man when he most needs it.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really enjoyed the film The Light Of Pip. It teaches a wonderful lesson about being kind and not presuming we know who people are by their outside appearances.

The story follows Pip (Natalie Lane), an 8-year-old girl, who finds a homeless man at the playground alone and begins to play with him. Pip shows Jessie (Michael Merritt) the friendship that he has been longing for when he needs it most.

This is a tricky story because it triggers people's concerns about talking with strangers and the mom reminds her daughter about her concern as they walk away. The young girl behaves in the most innocent way and she is guided by her faith. She only wants to help the man and her efforts pay off as we see the girl, her mom and the homeless guy enjoying flying kites and having a picnic together. The film is well produced from its writing to direction and editing. It has good camera work and good audio recording and a terrific music track by Michael Merritt, who also plays Mr. Jesse. I love the music; it really adds another dimension to the film. The costumes and locations all work well for the story. Jessie's clothes are typical of a homeless person and the girl and her mom are dressed as typical middle class Americans. The person who has the most visible character change is Jessie -- he goes from being lonely and sad to having a friend and being the happiest he has been in some time. Pip's mom, Jackie (Jackie Marsden) goes from being mad at Pip for talking to strangers to showing real compassion for Jessie and taking him into her heart. The ending is heartbreaking and may be too much for some audiences. Jessie passes away and is found by Pip and her mom. The striking part is the reveal at Jessie's funeral when the pastor tells his life story about how he lost his wife and daughter in a car accident with a drunk driver. In the end Pip's kindness brought happiness to a man who was alone and broken and he was not alone anymore.

The film's message is about how being kind to someone, being their friend, could change their lives forever. It's a beautiful message, but one might add that you should be careful about how you interact with strangers, because they are not all that nice. The film does have a slight Christian element to it, so be aware of that.

I give The Light of Pip 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed the film The Light Of Pip. It teaches a wonderful lesson about being kind and not presuming we know who people are by their outside appearances.

The story follows Pip (Natalie Lane), an 8-year-old girl, who finds a homeless man at the playground alone and begins to play with him. Pip shows Jessie (Michael Merritt) the friendship that he has been longing for when he needs it most.

This is a tricky story because it triggers people's concerns about talking with strangers and the mom reminds her daughter about her concern as they walk away. The young girl behaves in the most innocent way and she is guided by her faith. She only wants to help the man and her efforts pay off as we see the girl, her mom and the homeless guy enjoying flying kites and having a picnic together. The film is well produced from its writing to direction and editing. It has good camera work and good audio recording and a terrific music track by Michael Merritt, who also plays Mr. Jesse. I love the music; it really adds another dimension to the film. The costumes and locations all work well for the story. Jessie's clothes are typical of a homeless person and the girl and her mom are dressed as typical middle class Americans. The person who has the most visible character change is Jessie -- he goes from being lonely and sad to having a friend and being the happiest he has been in some time. Pip's mom, Jackie (Jackie Marsden) goes from being mad at Pip for talking to strangers to showing real compassion for Jessie and taking him into her heart. The ending is heartbreaking and may be too much for some audiences. Jessie passes away and is found by Pip and her mom. The striking part is the reveal at Jessie's funeral when the pastor tells his life story about how he lost his wife and daughter in a car accident with a drunk driver. In the end Pip's kindness brought happiness to a man who was alone and broken and he was not alone anymore.

The film's message is about how being kind to someone, being their friend, could change their lives forever. It's a beautiful message, but one might add that you should be careful about how you interact with strangers, because they are not all that nice. The film does have a slight Christian element to it, so be aware of that.

I give The Light of Pip 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 11 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BAT AND THE BOY, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BAT AND THE BOY, THE
BRIANA YARHOUSE
Series: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - A story of friendship between two unlikely children -- a vampire and a boy.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really enjoyed this short student animated film. It's off beat and clever.

The story follows a young boy, who, together with his pet pigeon, walk into a cave where they stumble upon a bat like creature who turns out to be a vampire, a youth vampire. Their mutual parents show up to pull them apart but, surprisingly, they establish a friendship that proves to be long lasting.

Very impressive animation work by these young filmmaker. Interesting storyline and great voice overs by the cast. I also love the soundtrack which adds a lot to the story. And, one of my favorite scenes is the one at the very end, showing both families picnicking together, the vampire family all sitting under the shade.

The film's message is that friendship comes in many different flavors, sometimes with people who are completely unlike you.

I give The Bat and the Boy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed this short student animated film. It's off beat and clever.

The story follows a young boy, who, together with his pet pigeon, walk into a cave where they stumble upon a bat like creature who turns out to be a vampire, a youth vampire. Their mutual parents show up to pull them apart but, surprisingly, they establish a friendship that proves to be long lasting.

Very impressive animation work by these young filmmaker. Interesting storyline and great voice overs by the cast. I also love the soundtrack which adds a lot to the story. And, one of my favorite scenes is the one at the very end, showing both families picnicking together, the vampire family all sitting under the shade.

The film's message is that friendship comes in many different flavors, sometimes with people who are completely unlike you.

I give The Bat and the Boy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


BIRD INFESTATION, THE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
BIRD INFESTATION, THE
BRIANA YARHOUSE
Series: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Exploring who we are through the metaphor of birds in verse and a variety of physical animation techniques.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What an intriguing short animation. I was completely entranced by the variety of animation used and the skill of each different type.

The film uses the metaphor of birds as it explores various what ifs.

This high school student-made short definitely has some legs to it. It would be confusing if you tried to understand exactly where it is going, but as a collection of images I find it fascinating. It is very well made. I especially enjoyed the "paper" animation, but really all of it is well executed.

The film doesn't really offer a message but opens up your mind to new ideas.

I give The Bird Infestation 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What an intriguing short animation. I was completely entranced by the variety of animation used and the skill of each different type.

The film uses the metaphor of birds as it explores various what ifs.

This high school student-made short definitely has some legs to it. It would be confusing if you tried to understand exactly where it is going, but as a collection of images I find it fascinating. It is very well made. I especially enjoyed the "paper" animation, but really all of it is well executed.

The film doesn't really offer a message but opens up your mind to new ideas.

I give The Bird Infestation 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


NORTH (2024)

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
NORTH (2024)
DONNIE CAI
Series: FOREIGH SHORT, AGES 8-18
Topic - Family
Description - As the New Year approaches and Grandpa's health condition worsens, Pingping returns with Baolai from Hainan to their small village in Heilongjiang, hoping to bring the old man back to Hainan. The two, caught in conflicts of old and new beliefs, never manage to reach an agreement. In the process of preparing to sell the father's only house, Pingping quietly abandons the idea, while Grandpa gradually comes to understand his child's perspective.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - North is a beautiful and very touching movie; the bond between the father and daughter is very deep. It addresses the changes in the lives of the elderly brought about by China's rapid modernization and social phenomenon. The story is very heartwarming, except for the heartbreaking death of Grandpa at the end.

The story follows Grandpa (Liu Xue) who has grown old, lost his wife and has become lonely and nostalgic for the old days. His daughter, Pingping (Han Huimin) returns to her family's small village with her own children to celebrate Chinese New Year with her elderly father and hopes he will join her in the southern city of Hainan after the New Year. When his daughter visits, Grandpa expresses the powerlessness he feels in his old age and how he does not want to move to Hainan. After much deliberation, the father decides to go with his daughter, but he dies before that happens. The film is from China with dialogue in Chinese with English subtitles.

The film is very well produced, with wonderful camera work and audio recording. The lighting for interior shots is lacking at times, making it difficult to see these scenes. But, I have to say that the images in the movie are extremely beautiful, and it seems that the director, Fengkai Liu, as well as the production staff really understand the Northeast as they show the charm of the ice and snow so well. When Grandpa introduces Baolai (Xue Tianxiao) to the land, the snowy landscape surrounds the two characters and we see the entire breadth of the land. The set very much keeps with the times, which made me feel like I was back at my grandparents' house, even though they lived in southern China. The somewhat dated, but uniquely beautiful set in the Northeast makes the story more convincing. There is relatively little music used in the movie, except at the end, when the daughter is sitting alone in the car and the sun appears in the distance; the music then drives home the emotions of the story even more. Of the three main characters in the film, the character of Grandpa is the most colorful -- he is very much like an elderly Chinese man. He shows a sense of loneliness in his body movements and his tone of voice. The Chinese New Year is of great importance to the Chinese people and is the equivalent of Christmas for Westerners. My favorite part is the scene during Chinese New Year when Baolai walks out to watch the fireworks, followed Pingping, and finally Grandpa stands to watch in the doorway. It's a long shot, full of invisible love. I am reminded of how a woman cares for her child and express her love directly, but when a father cares for his grown daughter, it's hard for him to show his love for her. At the end, Grandpa dies; we don't really see what happens, only his casket being taken away, Pingping sorting through his things, and the image of her face in the window of the door as she departs and drives away. Her face is devoid of emotion, and we are left with our own emotions about losing a loved one.

The film's message is about love and family and how, as we age, life changes but out love for our family never goes away.

I give North 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K., and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - North is a beautiful and very touching movie; the bond between the father and daughter is very deep. It addresses the changes in the lives of the elderly brought about by China's rapid modernization and social phenomenon. The story is very heartwarming, except for the heartbreaking death of Grandpa at the end.

The story follows Grandpa (Liu Xue) who has grown old, lost his wife and has become lonely and nostalgic for the old days. His daughter, Pingping (Han Huimin) returns to her family's small village with her own children to celebrate Chinese New Year with her elderly father and hopes he will join her in the southern city of Hainan after the New Year. When his daughter visits, Grandpa expresses the powerlessness he feels in his old age and how he does not want to move to Hainan. After much deliberation, the father decides to go with his daughter, but he dies before that happens. The film is from China with dialogue in Chinese with English subtitles.

The film is very well produced, with wonderful camera work and audio recording. The lighting for interior shots is lacking at times, making it difficult to see these scenes. But, I have to say that the images in the movie are extremely beautiful, and it seems that the director, Fengkai Liu, as well as the production staff really understand the Northeast as they show the charm of the ice and snow so well. When Grandpa introduces Baolai (Xue Tianxiao) to the land, the snowy landscape surrounds the two characters and we see the entire breadth of the land. The set very much keeps with the times, which made me feel like I was back at my grandparents' house, even though they lived in southern China. The somewhat dated, but uniquely beautiful set in the Northeast makes the story more convincing. There is relatively little music used in the movie, except at the end, when the daughter is sitting alone in the car and the sun appears in the distance; the music then drives home the emotions of the story even more. Of the three main characters in the film, the character of Grandpa is the most colorful -- he is very much like an elderly Chinese man. He shows a sense of loneliness in his body movements and his tone of voice. The Chinese New Year is of great importance to the Chinese people and is the equivalent of Christmas for Westerners. My favorite part is the scene during Chinese New Year when Baolai walks out to watch the fireworks, followed Pingping, and finally Grandpa stands to watch in the doorway. It's a long shot, full of invisible love. I am reminded of how a woman cares for her child and express her love directly, but when a father cares for his grown daughter, it's hard for him to show his love for her. At the end, Grandpa dies; we don't really see what happens, only his casket being taken away, Pingping sorting through his things, and the image of her face in the window of the door as she departs and drives away. Her face is devoid of emotion, and we are left with our own emotions about losing a loved one.

The film's message is about love and family and how, as we age, life changes but out love for our family never goes away.

I give North 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Xiangxi K., and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 29 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


	AU ZOO (AT THE ZOO): FRENCH LEARNING SONGS

KIDS FIRST ALL STAR
AU ZOO (AT THE ZOO): FRENCH LEARNING SONGS       Click Title to View High Bandwidth Online Video Trailer This title has online video!
WHISTLEFRITZ LLC
Series: AUDIO CD FOR AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - This lively musical introduction to French invites kids to dance and sing along to playful rhythms from reggae, merengue, and blues to African soukous, country, and more. The album enhances children's language skills as they embark on a musical journey to the zoo filled with French-learning fun!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - see youth comments
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Singing and dancing? Sign me up! Wait -- and you can learn French at the same time. I love the new AU ZOO (At the Zoo): French Learning Songs CD. It is amusing, enjoyable, and entertaining in every way. I was having so much fun that I forgot I was learning French at the same time. As soon as the music started, I was up on my feet and didn't sit down until the entire CD was over.

This CD takes the listeners on a journey through a zoo, concentrating on different animals that you might find there including lions, flamingos, ostriches, giraffes, and monkeys, just to name a few, all while learning the French language. Each song has its own concept which acts as a mini-lesson. The songs introduce and repeat vocabulary, which builds language skills bit by bit.

The appealing thing about AU ZOO (At the Zoo) -- French Learning Songs is the creativity of the lyrics along with the fun, upbeat vibe of the music. I found myself humming along immediately to every song that played. I also appreciated the animal noises and sound effects, especially the lion's ferocious roar! The music provides a solid, creative avenue for students to learn the French language. They won't even know they are learning because the songs take the hard work out of learning a new language. The songs do not just focus on animals; they also focus on concepts like holidays, back to school, the alphabet, and dancing. All of these are appropriate for younger audiences, because they are things that young kids are familiar with. Adding another language with content that kids are familiar with in song form helps them easily learn a new language. The CD's animal them emphasizes an appreciation for nature and animals. The repetitive nature of the songs helps the children enjoy a sense of achievement as they learn new words in French. Learning a new language also promotes a sense of openness to accepting other cultures and languages.

The songs on this CD are unusual. The background instrumentals are extremely catchy and definitely had me bobbing my head, clapping my hands, and tapping my feet. There were a few songs that I immediately recognized such as The Itsy Bitsy Spider. The lyrics are selected to help the beginning student learn and understand the French language. The biggest educational benefit of this CD is that it helps even the youngest audiences begin to learn and understand French in a new and exciting way. It engages them to want to learn more because it takes the stress out of learning and makes it less of a chore. The songs are easy to sing along to and remember. The emotional support that Au Zoo offers children is a sense of pride and confidence as they increase their knowledge of French. The CD definitely encourages children to want to practice and perfect the French words they have learned.

Included are 20 quirky, fun, and vibrant songs. They are not long and are repetitive for language learning purposes and fun. It didn't take me long to sing along to most of the songs. Artist, Didier Prossaird does an exquisite job of mixing an instrumental element with lyrics and lively background noises. I truly felt that I was on a safari at one point! Besides the animal songs, songs like Your Birthday, Happy Father's, Happy Valentine's Day, and Happy Back to School are included as well. My favorite songs are My Donkey, Have You Seen Fritzi, and Move and Dance. My Donkey is a silly song about a sick donkey who gets a lot of items from the doctor to feel better. And don't worry, the donkey gets better! Have You Seen Frizti had a memorable tune that I really enjoyed. Move and Dance made me want to - well move and dance! Although the songs are geared toward younger children, I found myself engaged and wanting more! Whether you're a young kid or just someone who loves animals and music, this CD makes learning French enjoyable.

I give AU ZOO (At the Zoo) -- French Learning Songs 5 out of 5 �toiles (that's French for stars!) and recommend it for ages 2 to 12, plus adults. It is available now through online retailers so look for it.

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic age 10

The Au Zoo French Learning Songs CD is an entertaining and creative way to teach the French language to beginners. I enjoyed the wide selection of songs from a variety of genres and found this CD enjoyable from start to finish.

This language learning program teaches children how to speak French at an early age. It has a wide selection of songs about animals from the zoo, foods, and holidays throughout the year, like Father's Day, Valentine's Day, and even the start of school! It uses storytelling and repetition to help listeners learn the language.

This CD is excellent! All the songs are fun and well written. The lyrics include a lot of beginning French words, and the music uses multiple genres. Everything is designed to help beginning French language students learn vocabulary and pronunciation. My favorite song is La Tortue A Faim, which means The Hungry Turtle, and is about a turtle trying to get across a yard. It is extremely catchy and creative, plus it is very educational and has lots of action words and adverbs. This song uses a lot of repetition as well as call and response methods. The singers are quite talented and have very melodic voices that are a pleasure to listen to. The music includes many different instruments, as well as scatting and whistling which fit the songs perfectly and makes them unforgettable. Many of the songs feature children's voices, which is great representation for the target audiences and makes the songs even more relatable.

The CD's purpose is to teach children how to speak beginning French at a young age. It definitely hits the mark for its educational impact while delivering fun and entertaining music.

I give The Au Zoo Learning Songs 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now through online retailers so look for it.

By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12
Runtime: 45 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: AUDIO

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FORGETTING NAEVY

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
FORGETTING NAEVY
HENDRIX YANCEY
Series: MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Two childhood friends, Thomas and Naevy, are torn apart when one of their father's gets a job in another state. They promise to stay in touch and write to each other every week, and they do, until one day Naevy's letter isn't returned. Naevy returns to their home town only to find out things are much more sinister than she once thought. Watch Naevy and Thomas navigate friendship, loss and then life after hardship.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Forgetting Naevy is quite a remarkable film by a middle school student filmmaker.

The story follows two childhood friends, Thomas and Naevy, who are torn apart when Naevy's dad gets a job out of state. They promise to stay in touch with one another and do until they don't. Circumstances change and Naevy's dad is relocated again, back to their home town. Naevy can't wait to see Thomas again, but when she does, something is very much amiss and he has lost his memory. Slowly they rebuild their friendship, creating new memories.

This is very well produced with great camera work, audio recording, terrific acting and direction. Really this is outstanding and, as a student film, even more remarkable. The plot development leads us down the rabbit hole, wondering what happened to Thomas and kudos to Naevy, for coming up with a solution to help him. This will make a great addition to any student film festival that KIDS FIRST! partners with.

The film's message is about rolling with the punches, and never letting your friends down.

I give Forgetting Naevy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Forgetting Naevy is quite a remarkable film by a middle school student filmmaker.

The story follows two childhood friends, Thomas and Naevy, who are torn apart when Naevy's dad gets a job out of state. They promise to stay in touch with one another and do until they don't. Circumstances change and Naevy's dad is relocated again, back to their home town. Naevy can't wait to see Thomas again, but when she does, something is very much amiss and he has lost his memory. Slowly they rebuild their friendship, creating new memories.

This is very well produced with great camera work, audio recording, terrific acting and direction. Really this is outstanding and, as a student film, even more remarkable. The plot development leads us down the rabbit hole, wondering what happened to Thomas and kudos to Naevy, for coming up with a solution to help him. This will make a great addition to any student film festival that KIDS FIRST! partners with.

The film's message is about rolling with the punches, and never letting your friends down.

I give Forgetting Naevy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


WHISPER TO THE VOID

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
WHISPER TO THE VOID
DONNIE CAI
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - NingNing is back to hometown for the first time with her father, Ang, only to find out her grandma was sick for a long time, and her father's sudden disappearance on the next day makes their visit an unexpected turn.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - What a touching film about family and taking care of the ones we love.

The story follows a young girl, NingNing, who has come home to visit her father and has multiple situations to deal with that she never anticipated. Her dad almost abandons her at the bus station, and then she discovers that her grandmother has been sick for a long time. The morning after she arrives her dad disappears and she becomes completely distraught until she finds him in an unlikely place.

Bravo to the director, Jiaxin Xu, for an outstanding film with great camera work, audio recording and editing. The key cast members, especially the little girl and her dad, are perfect for their roles. The locations are quite appropriate, especially the religious temple. The pace is painstakingly slow in the middle, but it holds your interest as you try to figure out what happened to the dad. When she finally finds him, I took a big sigh of relief, and then when they return to grandmother's house and she is no longer on her deathbed, the whole film takes a major turn.

The film's message is about the importance of family.

I give Whisper to The Void 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - What a touching film about family and taking care of the ones we love.

The story follows a young girl, NingNing, who has come home to visit her father and has multiple situations to deal with that she never anticipated. Her dad almost abandons her at the bus station, and then she discovers that her grandmother has been sick for a long time. The morning after she arrives her dad disappears and she becomes completely distraught until she finds him in an unlikely place.

Bravo to the director, Jiaxin Xu, for an outstanding film with great camera work, audio recording and editing. The key cast members, especially the little girl and her dad, are perfect for their roles. The locations are quite appropriate, especially the religious temple. The pace is painstakingly slow in the middle, but it holds your interest as you try to figure out what happened to the dad. When she finally finds him, I took a big sigh of relief, and then when they return to grandmother's house and she is no longer on her deathbed, the whole film takes a major turn.

The film's message is about the importance of family.

I give Whisper to The Void 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


POOS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
POOS
XSTINE COOK
Series: FOREIGN NATIVE AMERICAN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Poos is an animated adventure of Thumper the cat exploring her home and elements of Blackfoot culture. Directed by Blackfoot Language teacher Celestine Twigg, co-written by Celestine Twigg, Troy Emery Twig and Xstine Cook, with support from Harrison Red Crow and Adrian Stimson. Music by Lance Tailfeathers. Animated by Tank Standing Buffalo.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I find the short animated film, Poos, simply enchanting. It takes us into the world of the Blackfoot people via a charming little cat.

The storyline follows a cat named Thumper as she moves about her home, lies down to sleep and dreams. Her dreams reveal experiences of Blackfoot culture and beliefs. The dialogue is in Blackfoot language with both Blackfoot and English subtitles.

I loved learning more about the Blackfoot people through this animated film. The images are exquisite. I especially enjoyed the buffalo images during the dream sequence. But the cat and the woman are delightfully animated also. The background music by Lance Tailfeathers perfectly suits the storyline, particularly during the dream sequence. I loved hearing the native language and seeing the written words. My hats off to creators Celestine Twigg, Celestine Twigg, Troy Emery Twigg and Xstine Cook for creating such an original film that is both educational and entertaining.

The film is a reminder of the influence of First Nations' people worldwide and to honor their stories.

I give Poos 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I find the short animated film, Poos, simply enchanting. It takes us into the world of the Blackfoot people via a charming little cat.

The storyline follows a cat named Thumper as she moves about her home, lies down to sleep and dreams. Her dreams reveal experiences of Blackfoot culture and beliefs. The dialogue is in Blackfoot language with both Blackfoot and English subtitles.

I loved learning more about the Blackfoot people through this animated film. The images are exquisite. I especially enjoyed the buffalo images during the dream sequence. But the cat and the woman are delightfully animated also. The background music by Lance Tailfeathers perfectly suits the storyline, particularly during the dream sequence. I loved hearing the native language and seeing the written words. My hats off to creators Celestine Twigg, Celestine Twigg, Troy Emery Twigg and Xstine Cook for creating such an original film that is both educational and entertaining.

The film is a reminder of the influence of First Nations' people worldwide and to honor their stories.

I give Poos 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 5 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


TRANS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
TRANS
POWERSPLASH PROJECT
Series: INDIE DOCUMENTARY SHORT, AGES 12 TO 18
Topic - Family
Description - A precious life is born. Innocent and beautiful. Assigned at birth a gender based on their anatomy. But the phrase born a boy or girl may not be correct.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Wow, this is really impactful. It is full of information told in a very calm, non-threatening way.

The documentary very thoroughly explains what transgender people are and are not. It shows the history of trans people through the ages and offers ways to deal with issues if you are transgender yourself or if you have a child or friend that is.

I like how this documentary is put together. It is really chock full of useful information that is easy to understand. There has been so much prejudice about transgender people and this tackles questions about who they are and how they live and love, about how transgender people have been around and been acknowledged for centuries. It's beautiful executed with excellent visuals and lots of them. The narrator, Timothy Holland, is superb. His voice is calm and consistent. The list of people in the credits is extensive and impressive. I highly recommend this for a youth and family festival. It is certain to be a great conversation started.

The film's message is to demystify what transgender people are all about and to defray any prejudice towards them.

I give Trans 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Wow, this is really impactful. It is full of information told in a very calm, non-threatening way.

The documentary very thoroughly explains what transgender people are and are not. It shows the history of trans people through the ages and offers ways to deal with issues if you are transgender yourself or if you have a child or friend that is.

I like how this documentary is put together. It is really chock full of useful information that is easy to understand. There has been so much prejudice about transgender people and this tackles questions about who they are and how they live and love, about how transgender people have been around and been acknowledged for centuries. It's beautiful executed with excellent visuals and lots of them. The narrator, Timothy Holland, is superb. His voice is calm and consistent. The list of people in the credits is extensive and impressive. I highly recommend this for a youth and family festival. It is certain to be a great conversation started.

The film's message is to demystify what transgender people are all about and to defray any prejudice towards them.

I give Trans 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


DANCES WITH CHICKENS

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
DANCES WITH CHICKENS
STELLA LIN
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 8-12
Topic - Family
Description - Two young girls from the city learn both the challenges and fun of rural life when they join Peter at his forest-cloaked farm in the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Taiwan's tropical southeastern coast. Sustainability is the rule here, and the story unfolds as the girls help out with everyday tasks like feeding the family chickens and picking fruit as well as with sustainable-farm operations, including building an earth oven, digging a new humanure toilet, and making roselle jam. From cooking over a wood-fired stove and making coconut porridge for the hens to crouching over an open outdoor toilet when 'nature calls', nearly every experience here is new and unfamiliar. By opening a window onto "off the grid" sustainable living, this episode shows how living in tune with nature can be fun and rewarding, with plenty of time left over to appreciate the fruits of your labor and enjoy nature's many gifts.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Dance with Chickens is an interesting look at how city kids react to and learn from being in a rural environment and learn to adapt to living off the grid.

Two city girls (Lei Leong and Paige Stepherd) explore rural life when they join Peter at his farm overlooking the ocean in Taiwan. They go through all of Peter's task that he usually does - feeding chickens, picking fruit, making jam, even helping dig a new humanure toilet. The girls are unfamiliar with nature but they slowly start to enjoy being in nature and learn to enjoy its many gifts. The dialogue is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles.

This documentary really gives an inside look at rural life in Taiwan. The camera work and audio recording are terrific. I really enjoy the creative camera work at the beginning. I also love the scene when the camera follows them while they are walking through the trees. The girls' enthusiasm for learning new things is palpable and it's fun to observe and learn from their experience. Peter is a wonderful guide and very patient with the girls. They always find a way to mix play in with getting chores done. I enjoyed watching the girls experience everything that goes on at the farm and develop a new relationship with nature. My favorite part of the film is when they feed the ducks and chickens. In the end, the girls experience a whole different side of life by living "off the grid" in a marvelous sustainable rural environment where one works hard but has a lot of fun at the same time. It's quite a contrast to city life.

The film's message is that nature is your friend and could be exciting and lead to great adventures. There are some scenes that may be considered a bit too risky for US audiences like when they are standing up in the back of the truck or cracking open coconuts with machetes.

I give Dances with Chickens 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Dance with Chickens is an interesting look at how city kids react to and learn from being in a rural environment and learn to adapt to living off the grid.

Two city girls (Lei Leong and Paige Stepherd) explore rural life when they join Peter at his farm overlooking the ocean in Taiwan. They go through all of Peter's task that he usually does - feeding chickens, picking fruit, making jam, even helping dig a new humanure toilet. The girls are unfamiliar with nature but they slowly start to enjoy being in nature and learn to enjoy its many gifts. The dialogue is in Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles.

This documentary really gives an inside look at rural life in Taiwan. The camera work and audio recording are terrific. I really enjoy the creative camera work at the beginning. I also love the scene when the camera follows them while they are walking through the trees. The girls' enthusiasm for learning new things is palpable and it's fun to observe and learn from their experience. Peter is a wonderful guide and very patient with the girls. They always find a way to mix play in with getting chores done. I enjoyed watching the girls experience everything that goes on at the farm and develop a new relationship with nature. My favorite part of the film is when they feed the ducks and chickens. In the end, the girls experience a whole different side of life by living "off the grid" in a marvelous sustainable rural environment where one works hard but has a lot of fun at the same time. It's quite a contrast to city life.

The film's message is that nature is your friend and could be exciting and lead to great adventures. There are some scenes that may be considered a bit too risky for US audiences like when they are standing up in the back of the truck or cracking open coconuts with machetes.

I give Dances with Chickens 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. By Janie R., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 24 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 8-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO


FROM CORINNE'S HEART

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title
FROM CORINNE'S HEART
CHARLES MANDRACCHIA
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 12-18
Topic - Family
Description - Inspired by true events, Corinne dreamed of becoming a world class figure skater. Diagnosed with Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, she cannot accept her misfortune until the love of Tony gives her hope and a small miracle.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really like From Corinne's Heart. The story is heartwarming and creative and, making it a musical film adds to its entertainment factor.

Based on a true story, this musical film follows Corinne (Arielle Joy Hubbard) who dreams of becoming a championship figure skater and then receives news that changes her entire life. She visits her doctor and learns that she has Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Corinne struggles to cope with her disease and distances herself from her boyfriend Tony (Scott Fraser O'Brien) until he wins her over and gives her hope.

What a beautiful and inspiring film. I like how the film makes sure that Corinne's struggles with MS are seen. It allows the audience to understand why she is so frustrated and why she does not want to marry Tony initially. This film is a musical - the entire story is told by the lyrics and the music. The music is quite wonderful and I enjoyed seeing the characters express their story through song. The camera work and the audio recording are spot on - very professional. After a wonderful montage opening showing Corinne ice skating and she and Tony together, we see Corinne at the doctor's office where she gets her diagnosis. Her friend Anna is by her side. When she returns from the doctor's appointment, she breaks down to Anne explaining how broken she feels and when Tony comes to see her, she refuses to see him. Her world is crumbling around her. She is very angry that she cannot live her dream of being a figure skater. Throughout the film, we see Corinne's character develop. Initially she is devastated when she learns about her diagnosis and that she will be unable to have children. Towards the end she accepts that she will have to live with her disease but it doesn't mean she can't live her life the way she wants. After first telling Tony she can't marry him, they marry eventually and have a daughter together. There are many wonderful moments in the film, like the Miracle Man showing up just when Tony needs a lift. I guess my favorite scene is at Corinne's physical therapy appointment. At first she is skeptical that she will be able to stand up. When she does stand up and starts taking slow steps she feels like she is taking control of her life and not letting her disease define her. I love that the filmmaker includes still photos of the actual Corinne and her family at the end. The incredible cast includes many Broadway veterans. Arielle Joy Hubbard as Corinne, Scott Fraser O'Brien as Tony, Hannah Thompson as Anne, Davon Cochran as The Miracle Man, Bart Shatto as Doctor Gerard and Keith Crowningshield as Mister Keith the physical therapist. I commend all of the actors for their terrific acting and singing. Watching this reminded me of going to the opera - the voices are so incredibly wonderful and inspiring. Lastly, and most importantly, my hat's off to Emmy Award-nominated Charles Mandracchia, the film's producer, writer, composer and director.

The film's message is about pushing through obstacles no matter what. It also reminds us that we do not go through life alone. Corinne is helped by so many loving people around her who support her on her journey - her friend Anna, her boyfriend Tony, the physical therapist, the Miracle Man who motivates Tony, and more.

I give From Corinne's Heart 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Motunrayo A. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really like From Corinne's Heart. The story is heartwarming and creative and, making it a musical film adds to its entertainment factor.

Based on a true story, this musical film follows Corinne (Arielle Joy Hubbard) who dreams of becoming a championship figure skater and then receives news that changes her entire life. She visits her doctor and learns that she has Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Corinne struggles to cope with her disease and distances herself from her boyfriend Tony (Scott Fraser O'Brien) until he wins her over and gives her hope.

What a beautiful and inspiring film. I like how the film makes sure that Corinne's struggles with MS are seen. It allows the audience to understand why she is so frustrated and why she does not want to marry Tony initially. This film is a musical - the entire story is told by the lyrics and the music. The music is quite wonderful and I enjoyed seeing the characters express their story through song. The camera work and the audio recording are spot on - very professional. After a wonderful montage opening showing Corinne ice skating and she and Tony together, we see Corinne at the doctor's office where she gets her diagnosis. Her friend Anna is by her side. When she returns from the doctor's appointment, she breaks down to Anne explaining how broken she feels and when Tony comes to see her, she refuses to see him. Her world is crumbling around her. She is very angry that she cannot live her dream of being a figure skater. Throughout the film, we see Corinne's character develop. Initially she is devastated when she learns about her diagnosis and that she will be unable to have children. Towards the end she accepts that she will have to live with her disease but it doesn't mean she can't live her life the way she wants. After first telling Tony she can't marry him, they marry eventually and have a daughter together. There are many wonderful moments in the film, like the Miracle Man showing up just when Tony needs a lift. I guess my favorite scene is at Corinne's physical therapy appointment. At first she is skeptical that she will be able to stand up. When she does stand up and starts taking slow steps she feels like she is taking control of her life and not letting her disease define her. I love that the filmmaker includes still photos of the actual Corinne and her family at the end. The incredible cast includes many Broadway veterans. Arielle Joy Hubbard as Corinne, Scott Fraser O'Brien as Tony, Hannah Thompson as Anne, Davon Cochran as The Miracle Man, Bart Shatto as Doctor Gerard and Keith Crowningshield as Mister Keith the physical therapist. I commend all of the actors for their terrific acting and singing. Watching this reminded me of going to the opera - the voices are so incredibly wonderful and inspiring. Lastly, and most importantly, my hat's off to Emmy Award-nominated Charles Mandracchia, the film's producer, writer, composer and director.

The film's message is about pushing through obstacles no matter what. It also reminds us that we do not go through life alone. Corinne is helped by so many loving people around her who support her on her journey - her friend Anna, her boyfriend Tony, the physical therapist, the Miracle Man who motivates Tony, and more.

I give From Corinne's Heart 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. By Motunrayo A. and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 38 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO



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