Ages 2-5 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The story begins with a little boy explaining what ego and waste management are. Then a grandma that sews old clothes into new things makes some items for the boy's mom. The grandma's niece steals a shirt that she really likes, but the grandma finds out and takes it back. The girl is mad but the grandma finds a solution. This is from India, with dialogue in both English and Hindi, and English subtitles as needed.

The story flows well and makes a lot of sense. I like how the girl changes the most. At first she is mad at her grandma because she would not allow her to do anything, but in the end she is happy. I was empathetic with the girl because she really liked the shirt but she could not have it because it didn't belong to her. But, grandma finds a solution. The images are very clear and easy to identify. As a live action film it is very realistic and kid friendly. It invites the viewer to problem solve, especially the girl's conflict with wanting something she can't have. We observe grandma's problem solving solution as she makes both people happy. It teaches us a bit about Halduwala culture and the importance of recycling as a way to protect the environment.

The film's message is about the importance of taking care of the environment and how recycling helps do that.

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.

The film follows Jaime Jangles and her Zany Dad on an imaginative world tour, visiting 20 different countries and sharing the music from each one. The images are drawn and they move a bit but aren't fully animated.

I love the music and the sets in each country. It really gives you an overview of so many different cultures in a quick way. It reminded me of Guido Sarducci's 90 second vacation on SNL back in the day, only from a kids' point of view. We see penguins in Antarctica, the tower of London in the UK, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the coliseum in Rome, and so much more. I could see this five-minute short as an interstitial at a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. It's cute; it's fun; it's childlike and I love the dad and daughter narrators.

The film gives us a quick overview of the different countries, cultures and music that exist on our great planet.

Time for Art is a fun and quirky collection of activities for school-aged kids that revolve around humor and creativity. The host, Bill Dougal, is joined by a few other interesting characters who lend their silly jokes and input on - on gosh, everything. Bill teaches basic drawing techniques sprinkled in with songs, jokes, and other stuff.

I have to say that I just love this guy, with all his quirks. I especially love the drawing lessons. They are so simple and straightforward; it makes you think that anyone could do it. When he bursts into song, which he does quite often, it just makes me giggle. And then there are the "bad" jokes; they are definitely kid appropriate and parents will appreciate that.

The film's message is really about creativity and fun. Who doesn't like that?

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.

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.

The story follows a drop of water and chloroplast who unexpectedly meet and fall for each other, but they have some serious differences that make it difficult to even kiss each other. Fortunately, things evolve and they at last... well, you'll have to watch to find out.

The animation in this short film is terrific and the storyline has classic elements to it. Not exactly a Romeo and Juliet because there are no warring families, but the two protagonists definitely come from different worlds. Their efforts to make things work eventually pay off and we have a happy ending. Great background music. All around well executed short film that would make lovely interstitial for a KIDS FIRST! festival.

The storyline is about how two individuals from different backgrounds can somehow make things work out between them if they are clever and focused enough.

This story is told by the great Bichon Frise detective, Upton Charles, with assistance from his feline friend, Watson. It begins at a time when things seem to have reached a new calm in his household until, quite unexpectedly, a new dog joins the family. A walk on the beach reveals a possible problem when an abandoned sailboard is spotted on a nearby island and suddenly, everyone jumps into action trying to figure out what is going on.

I was not surprised that the new dog, Upton's brother, Arthur, turns out to have natural "detective" instincts, just like Upton and, as they join the police chief investigating the stranded sailboat, he proves his skills. Bit by bit, the mystery unravels and the reader begins to make presumptions about what happened. I like how the clues are reiterated once a few have been collected, as a way to help the reader engage their deductive reasoning. I also like that there's a lot of knowledge to be gained about boats, boat parts and how boats operate. If you've never been in the boating community, this story definitely teaches a thing or two about how things work. The dialogue between the family members, Upton, Watson and the new dog, Arthur, allows us an inside look at who is thinking or saying what. It makes me wonder how much the author listens to the dogs in his universe. I like how certain words, like wake, which might be unfamiliar to the reader, are explained. Another plus is how a few lessons are intertwined into the story about environmental awareness, such as the police chief's disgust at finding plastic bottles in the sand and commenting on how long they take to disintegrate. There are a few typos such as: Chief O'Brien gives s 'thumbs' up (the a is missing). Also, there are some punctuation errors such as: type in the hospitals number (missing an apostrophe). But, for the most part, this is well written and definitely age appropriate.

The story reminds us of how to collect clues when solving any mystery we run into as they progress step by step in solving the mystery of the missing sailor.

I give Upton Charles: Double Trouble 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It can be found online where books are sold and in select bookstores.

The story follows a little girl and her grandmother, as the girl studies ballet and we learn of her and her grandmother's love of yellow butterflies. The grandmother dies, but she turns into a yellow butterfly and eases the little girl's grief.

The filmmaker is so creative and I really love the unique visual arts. The story is touching and uses the butterflies in a way that nicely represents the impact of the grandmother's death on the little girl. The death of an elder can be a very traumatic time in a child's life, but this story is presented in a much warmer and creative way that lessens the sadness of the story. It's a short 2D animated movie and the whole presentation is very creative with fabulous angles showing various points of view. Every part of the story is visualized very well. For example, the connection of the grandmother's death with the butterflies, is very creative and strongly connects to the theme of the story. The backgrounds have a clipart-like feel to them, and the colors are especially vibrant, which can get a child hooked on the film very quickly. I really like the music - it is very simple, and fits the theme of the story very well. It is also very soft and that softness fits the sadness of the death of the grandmother, adding a touch of tenderness. The protagonist of the story, the little girl, changes through her grandmother's death and her transformation into a butterfly, thus the girl's initial sadness becomes acceptance of her loved one's death and allows her to move on with her life happily. The way the character is presented in this story is a good way to show the perception of death for a child. My favorite scene is when granny becomes a butterfly. This scene is so creative and starts the whole story. This short film is really creative and educational.

The film's message is about the love between grandma and granddaughter.

The story follows a little girl who dresses up as a fairy. When she does so, her older brother tells her that fairies aren't real. She decides to teach him a lesson and show him that, in fact, fairies are real.

This film is very heartwarming. The two kid protagonists (Mila Diaz, Niko Diaz) are quite something. The little girl is absolutely adorable and I loved seeing her teach her brother a lesson. She is so feisty. The storyline is cute but it is a bit confusing. And there is very little dialogue. The plot is pretty obvious, and the little sister gets the upper hand in the end, which is very cute and humorous. The quality of the video is incredibly clear and really makes the film. There are a few close-ups that are well placed and accentuate the different characters. Some camera work is a bit shaky during the scenes where the characters are walking. The costumes work well, especially the little girl's fairy costume. The forest location is gorgeous and quite a bit of the film takes place there. The trees are so tall and the rich green colors surrounding the characters is striking. The background music is a critical part to this film, since there is very little dialogue. The music drives a lot of the action and gives the film a mysterious energy, especially during the scenes with the fairy - it gives her a very ethereal feeling. It's definitely worth a good laugh, especially for siblings that can relate to it. The film's message is to respect other people's ideas and opinions.

The storyline is about a slave girl called Ping (Mayalinee Griffiths), who dreams about meeting dragons. Her dream comes true, but one of the magical creatures dies and she goes on a quest to save the dragons and hatch the last imperial dragons' egg. Joining her is a dragon (Bill Nighy) as her protector and a funny "very helpful" mouse. She soon finds out that she has mystical powers and learns to use them to stop bad guys who want to steal the egg and use its powers for evil.

I really enjoyed this film. It's an animated film with special effects. It also has lots of humor - there are all sorts of humorous scenes like my favorite, where the mouse tries helping. He marches up to the big fight against something 2,000,000 times his size. Another fun scene is when he rolls the egg away from the bad guys. The movie is also sad and heartfelt because one of the dragons dies. The visual effects are great and really stand out. For example when one of the dragons heals Ping's wound with the power of the egg as shown in the trailer. I do have to admit that some parts of the movie are a little childish. For example, there is a scene about 30 seconds long of two kids blowing raspberries at each other.

The film's message is "you can do whatever you want; only you decide your destiny."

I give Dragonkeeper 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It is available on digital in the US now and opens in theaters in UK & Ireland on September 27, 2024. I hope you enjoy it.

The storyline follows a girl who has a pencil that is now dead and she calls it useless. She has a flashback showing her as younger with the pencil. Then she experiences a lack of thoughts (her project) and has visions of her pencil everywhere- in the book, cooking pot, and bathroom. Finally she learns that it's okay to miss things and grieve for something you loved because it helps you move on.

I really enjoyed the movie and I believe that children and parents will too; plus, it gives a good message. I really appreciate the camera work. I like how the camera zooms in to the most important thing in every scene. My favorite one is when they are in the kitchen and she sees pencils. The camera zooms in to the pencils, then her reaction, then the pencil again, then the reaction again. I really enjoyed the flashback because it contributes to the plot in a good way and helps the viewer see what the short film is about. The film is amazingly well written and the other aspects of the production are quite good. The costumes go well with the timeframe and the story line. My favorite costume is the one in the flashback. I like her artistic outfit and it goes well with the film. The sets suit the story well. The set that I really like is the animated one when she is throwing the paper. It includes the world, the Eiffel Tower and space. It stands out the most because it is cool and funny. The background music is well chosen; though there are a lot, my favorite one is the background music played in the kitchen. It really brings tension and suspense to the film. This movie used a lot of effects; they are not realistic, but they bring excitement to the movie so they are effective. My favorite one is the coffee pot, which made me laugh. The main character is an illustrator, (Lucia Schaab), who goes through a character change by ignoring her grief, which makes her lose ideas and go through not being able to move on, to finally embracing the grief which allows her to move on and accomplish things. My favorite part of the film is when the paper is thrown across the world and the animation takes us 'round the world. That is funny and cool. This could be considered an educational film, because it teaches people that grieving something that is lost is the best way to move on.

The film's message is about how grieving for something you used to love is the best way to move on to something new. Be aware that the film talks about death, although in a good way, but it could be a sensitive topic for some kids.

The storyline follows a young alchemy student who attempts to solve issues with his mentor's greatest creation without getting caught.

I really enjoyed the film and I think it's perfect for younger kids. It begins with the master making a potion and he keeps messing up. His young apprentice tries to help and when the master tells him to go away the boy gets sad. The 2D animation is very good; it's bright and colorful and well designed. This could easily turn into a longer film because it holds up well. There is no dialogue, only computer-like sounds. The backgrounds are excellent. The kingdom is so colorful and beautiful. The characters are all designed very well; it definitely brought to mind the classic Disney film, The Sorcerer's Apprentice - without the whole craziness of that. What I like most is when the apprentice is able to get the potion right. The apprentice is the most interesting character to me; he starts out sad because the master won't let him help, but after he fixes the potion, he's happy, even though the mast still doesn't let him help. My favorite part of the film is the cute little frog. I like when the scene zooms into the frog after it jumps out of the cauldron and the frog is glowing. I kept watching the frog after the credits.

The film's message is that helping does not always mean you get a reward but it still makes you feel good.

Up and Away is a short animated film that follows a journey by a young girl and boy through space in a quirky looking spacecraft exploring the universe.

This film is fairly esoteric and leaves much to the viewer's imagination. This non narrative film, by Edward Ramsay-Morin, is well crafted although I need to point out that the animation is limited. The two child characters look like cutouts from a Dick and Jane reader and are not animated. They travel about without any movement from their bodies or mouths, which can be an issue for younger kids. The kids travel past various objects in space - rocks, piles of blue things. The film begins and ends with a face floating in space and it's unclear exactly what that face represents. One of the key characters is a bird who appears early on and later, attacks Dick and Jane's craft with lightning bolts. The bird doesn't have any motion in its body either, it moves as a still image across the screen. The bird's attack is odd and we have no idea what it is all about or why it is attacking Dick and Jane. Once the spacecraft crashes other birds appear and attack the "big" bird until it disintegrates and, la voile, the craft rises to continue its journey and the face reappears - perhaps happily so? The score, by Trent William Hanna, is well designed also. It consists of various pieces of music assembled into sort of a musical collage that helps create the mood of the film.

The film's message is to never get too off-guard because there could always be an obstacle.

Two scientists, Mark Langry and Amy Hassett are joined by an alien Muppet character named Zoom and they go on a fun, educational adventure exploring different aspects of climate change. The main issue to solve is how greenhouse gasses severely increase global warming and climate change. They team up with some elementary students to conduct experiments and teach kids about climate change by making greenhouses. This is from Ireland, with dialogue that has a lovely Irish accent to it.

The show's pace is really quick because it tries to fit a lot of information into a short period of time. I like how the animation shifts to realism and back again to animation. It is very upbeat and positive, without talking down to kids or being trivial. There are three main characters - Mark Langry, Amy Hassett, and the alien named Zoom, voiced by Charlie Wolfe. Mark and Amy focus on explaining things very clearly using vocabulary that is appropriate for school aged kids. The three adventurers begin observing the Earth from their spaceship, which is cleverly created using greenscreen technology and animation. Later, they zoom down to Earth to visit kids at a school. Amy is in a wheelchair, but that never restricts her participation in any way. I love the animated props they use, because everything looks futuristic, but based on technology we are familiar with today. I love the part when their spaceship lands in the school yard. My favorite part is when two elementary students conduct a science experiment based on greenhouses. It reminds me of PBS Kids shows. I love the music at the end. It's fun and completely dance-able.

The film's message is that humans need to stop destroying mother nature because it's leading to not so good things on Earth like global warming and climate change.

The story, told solely through 2D animation, follows a young girl who receives a dress that is a bit too big for her, but she adapts and ends up wearing it in various ways for some time. Eventually, she takes it to a thrift shop and next thing we see is another girl enjoying the dress.

I love the sweet and simple animation and the film's message - recycle, reuse, donate. It brings home a message about making things last and, when they no longer work for you, to pass them on to someone new. The background music is perfect and non intrusive. The characters are well drawn and easy to relate to, no matter what your background is. This would make a perfect interstitial for a KIDS FIRST! film festival.

The film's message is about reusing and recycling the materials things in our lives.

The story follows a Komodo Dragon who aspires to be a "real" dragon and admires one she has seen. She goes to great lengths to create wings so she fly! And accomplishes it, but not for long. Dejected, she lands back on the ground, only to be surprised by the real dragon coming towards her on foot to hang out with her. Together they fly with Koru on the real dragon's back, showing us how things can work out in the end. I love the animation; it's quite beautiful. The narrator's voice is perfect for this short animated tale and the background music works well also.

The film's message is that we all can be who we are and fit right in with others. We don't need to try to be something we are not.

Hi Noel follows a shy young boy, Leon (Zane Asher Quek), who is very sad because he realizes that his parents might be headed towards a divorce. As his parents argue with each other, Leon feels a sense of loneliness and he creates an imaginary friend for himself named Noel (Oscar Ow). Noel is the perfect friend that Leon needs during this tumultuous time. Together, Leon and Noel take off on an adventure trying to get his parents back together and, eventually they end up getting trapped in a room. When Leon's parents look for him they finally work together and it changes everything. The dialogue is in Mandarin Chinese and English, with English subtitles as needed.

This is a great film that addresses a difficult topic - divorce. It is very suitable for school aged kids and their parents. The production levels are quite good with excellent camera work and audio recordings and a great soundtrack. I especially like the beginning when a number of kids are interviewed; they are very real and charming. The stars of the show are Zane Asher Quek and Oscar Ow, who play the two boys. They are absolutely adorable. The parents, played by Jaime Teo and Dylan Quek, are also quite good. They seem like typically busy and distracted young parents. When the mom asks Leon who he would live with if they separated, she is surprised to hear him say, "Daddy." And the reason why? Daddy plays with him.

I like the scene when we first learn that Leon has an imaginary friend. Although it is sad, it contributes to the story and introduces the stress of his home life where his parents fight a lot and are headed for divorce. I enjoyed watching him play soccer with his imaginary friend and when they wander off to the park. Later when Leon learns that another girl at school also has an imaginary friend, it vindicates his own. The background music is excellent; it really enhances the tone of each scene and brings home the emotional context. I especially love the circus sounding music when Leon and Noel head to the playground. And, it really emphasizes the sadness in the scene where the parents have finally acknowledged they are divorcing and individually are packing up their stuff. This film doesn't hold back on the issues causing unhappiness in this family. We see how the relationship between the parents has become physically abusive in addition to being mentally abusive. We see Leon blaming himself for his parents' behavior and thinking he should run away so they could be happy. It drags a bit past the midpoint, but picks up again and the ending is a happy ending. I enjoyed seeing the transition the mom and dad make as the film progresses. They finally stop fighting and focusing on themselves when they have to work together to find their child and, somehow in the midst of that, remember what they mean to each other. It may be a bit of a far-fetched ending because we all know that relationships are complicated, but who doesn't love a happy ending?

The film's message is about working out your issues for your family, because family is important.

In LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, the entire Star Wars galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact called the Cornerstone from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.

LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy is full of comedy, action and incredible animation. This show is filled with heart, laughter, and the important message of believing in yourself. It is a family friendly special and for fans of LEGO or Star Wars this is a must watch. I could not take my eyes off the screen. The animation and visuals are stunning - I love when the light sabers light up and the flying sequences are awesome. They could not have picked a better cast to voice these characters. It features the vocal work of Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Gaten Matarazzo (Sig Greebling), Bobby Moynihan (Jedi Bob), Tony Revolori (Dev Greebling), Marsai Martin (Yesi Scala), Michael Cusack (Servo), and Ahmed Best (Darth Jar Jar). The writing is so smart and funny. I think this movie will create a whole new generation of LEGO and Star Wars fans because it has something for everyone.

This film teaches you to believe in yourself and to embrace teamwork.

I give LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can watch LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy on Disney+ beginning September 13, 2024 on Disney +.

The storyline follows a young woman, Larkspur, whose town is hit by an earthquake and, in the midst of the confusion, a mysterious cavalryman appears. Larkspur has the gift of healing people and cures the young man of his injuries only to discover eventually that they have shared skills, which may just save her town from complete oblivion. This is a pilot for a new animated series.

Great animation - simple and straightforward, and quite charming. The characters are interesting and well developed. The storyline begins here and has a cliff-hanging ending. The voiceover talent is excellent; each character is well defined by the individual voices. The background music is reminiscently medieval which suits the story.

The film's message is yet to be determined, but we can see from this pilot that it's about chivalry and taking care of your community.

Eli, a "social" scientist, conducts a laboratory in which children (and adults) can learn how to acquire personal characteristics that enable them to problem solve effectively. She and Pau, her little assistant, help Tino understand why he feels angry and uncommunicative, and then work out a way to put things to rights with his friends.

This film's storyline presents quite sophisticated values. Many of these words, let alone their meanings, are likely to be unfamiliar: sociability, solidarity, loyalty, honesty, dignity, excellence, and love. In the play land of Living Water, children can create scenarios that are analogous to their own difficulties and then work them out in a safe space free of condescension and judgment. By and large, these values are presented in terms of absolutes: things are black and white, right and wrong. Perhaps this is a good starting point for young hearts and minds, and later they can explore the many shades of gray that are less than moral imperatives.

This movie uses live actors as well as animation. Eli and the children discuss Tino's dilemma, choose a value to apply, and select toy characters to participate in an animated play scenario. Animated characters are simple and colorful, appealing and recognizable, which provides a nice contrast to philosophical complexity. The film's spoken language is Spanish, and there are noticeable misspellings and translation errors in the English subtitles. Also, the subtitles are in a white font which makes them difficult to read when superimposed on the film.

Children will find all the rows of colorful glass jars in the laboratory appealing, as each of them contains a particular value. Eli literally feeds the chosen value, which looks like a glistening orb of sticky candy, to Tino...the spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down. After every segment exploring a particularly suitable value, there is a lively song to reinforce understanding. They are subtitled in Spanish (as well as English) so children can read and sing along. Music reinforces memory.

Tino is the character showing the most development. He begins the story sullen and untalkative because he is in a pickle. As he is drawn out by Eli, then given values and an understanding of how to apply them to his situation, he becomes more and more invested in the play scenarios. In the end, Tino decides for himself how he is going to handle cleaning up his own mess--no adult has handed him the script. Eli does give him a Love candy to share with his friend who will probably be mad about the outcome, but that's the extent of adult intervention other than providing the tools to create his own solution. That's a great lesson in empowering children while still keeping the gentlest guiding hand on the rudder.

I appreciate the smooth transitions from live actors to animation. I especially admire the parsing out done when presenting an explanation of Dignity. The music box ballerina, who spurned the affection of the Count, was required to pose like a statue for 60 minutes in order to participate in his dance pageant. Solomon, the wise toy elephant, asks her if she has reconsidered, and she steps off the timer with five minutes remaining. "Dignity is the limit you put on being offended. On being disrespected. And you should never allow that," explains Solomon to all her friends. He makes a fine distinction between being tested or being humiliated. In my opinion, this is a rich lesson for young children to understand, especially since there's such a prevalence of trendy "dares" on social media. Dares humiliate. Solomon also knocks out false dignity: acting dignified because someone has called you out on your questionable behavior. This lesson helps children calibrate their internal compass.

The film's message is: acquiring a set of personal values is like having a rainbow to chase away the storm clouds: the more values you have, the better decisions you can make.

The film shows various creatures, including frogs, ladybugs, caterpillars and axolotls that go through metamorphosis. However, this is also a metaphor for growing up and going through the different stages in life. The different animals go through different phases to find their true self, just like people.

I recommend this film for a youth and family film festival because it's a visually appealing film that has a deep message behind it. I like that the story uses nature to describe something that humans can relate to -- change. Animals go through metamorphosis and, in their own way, humans morph through adolescence. I like that each animal develops to its true self in the end. I love the claymation; it is very encapsulating, creative and well-made. For instance, when the axolotl (a type of salamander) is coming out of the water, it starts as a little piece of pink clay to become a full amphibian in just a few frames. The quality of the camerawork is quite good. The animated creatures change in many different ways. For example, the ladybug's haircuts change when the narrator says "going through phases." Another example is when the caterpillar goes into a cocoon and then changes into a monarch butterfly. The backgrounds are quit inventive and perfect. Whether there are real rocks or a paper replica in the underwater scene, the background looks so realistic. Since frogs are aquatic creatures, they have underwater backgrounds illustrated by flat paper. Also, when a frog jumps into the water, the "splashes" are pieces of clay against a blue background. The sound effects are amazing because they're timed perfectly to make it look like an amphibian splashing and swimming in water. An example is when the fully developed frog jumps onto a lily pad. So, the water sound effects definitely enhance the story. All of the characters are so interesting and their characters develop throughout this two minute film. Ladybug goes through phases before finding out who she really is and she learns to be herself. Frog morphs from tadpole to frog over time, and aspires to be stronger. Axolotl doesn't want to grow up, but discovers a whole new world when she does. Caterpillar is impatient but learns to soar and not take the moment for granted. All the characters grow by the end of the film. I am astonished that this is written, animated, and directed by twelve-year-old Bryn Wright. It really shows that kids can do incredible things and follow their passions. She should be proud; the film is very original and inspiring. My favorite part is at the beginning when the tadpole changes into a frog. The tadpole swims around and changes form in each frame. I love the water sound effects in the background. It's my favorite part of the film because I can tell a lot of hard work went into making the clay models by hand - and I know how tedious it is to make stop motion animation. This film is perfect for an entry into a student film festival and shows what an extraordinary film can be made by a young creative.

The film's message is about finding yourself through life's obstacles and embracing change. Transition can be difficult and the film reminds the audience to be patient and "wait a while."

The storyline is about Analise (Inez Hubbard), a new girl at school, who has a very important secret. Her friends want to find out what the secret is and end up making tragedies happen.

I like that this film only lasts a few minutes and yet, I quickly managed to understand what it was about. The film is five minutes long and in the first two minutes, I managed to capture the message of the film. The camera work is very good. There is a scene that impressed me in this regard where one of Analise's friends is entering her house and I couldn't even notice the transition. The costumes are casual contemporary clothing, which are suitable for the story. The locations work well - both the school and Analise's home. The background music is essential to the film; in certain parts, such as when a friend is running to her house, the background music is frightening, which matches what the girl is feeling. The girls' performances are incredible. They are super natural. And they have great development too. The friends Ellie (Ellie Maxwell) and Florence (Arya Whitney) go from being suspicious to being frightened by Analise's secret throughout the film. Their performances in this change of thought are very perfect. The director of the film, Iris Taylor is actually a 12-year-old young film. She worked in collaboration with the Whole Life Learning Center classmates. My favorite part is where we discover Analise's secret. It definitely took me by surprise and I had never seen anything like it in any film. It is very creative and it makes me create crazy theories about this secret even now.

The film's message is, do not trust everyone you think you can trust.

The storyline follows a young boy named Jack (Grey Bahat Stolarz), who is grieving the loss of his father. Jack's mother, Nancy (Chelsea Alden), brings him a special picture book to read about an enchanted swing on a hilltop that mirrors the ups and downs of his own feelings during a time of loss.

The Mood Swing's emotional message will reach anyone experiencing a loss or other hardship, whether mental or physical. The production is excellent! The animation, combined with the live-action shots, makes it an intriguing and enchanting experience. I like how the film not only retells the book, but has a story within a story. Jack has his own conflict, separate from the boy in the book - the book simply helps Jack cope. The book has significance to Jack because of his ordeal, so the film shows a real, relatable kid reacting to what he sees in the book and a mom who has chosen it for a specific reason. All that adds a layer of depth to the film and makes it seem more authentic and less like a straightforward reading of the book. I was very impressed by the animation. It has a unique, 3-dimensional style, and the images are bright, colorful and detailed, creating a magical world that I love. I felt like I was flying up to space with the characters.

The live-action portion of the film takes place in Jack's bedroom at night. His bedroom features telescopes, lava lamps, dinosaur statues and posters, and soft ambient lighting that gives it a cozy feel. Despite being a very stereotypical boy's bedroom, it has a peaceful glow to it that adds to the charming, dreamlike tone of the film. The background music immediately stood out to me, as it is the first thing I heard as scenes in his bedroom take place. The tinkling sounds are reminiscent of a lullaby or a child's music box, or even a rotating mobile above a baby's crib. It put me at ease immediately, as if I was getting ready to hear a bedtime story. The live-action shots have plenty of special effects, including beams of light from the book, stardust swirling around Jack and Nancy as they read, and quicksand that shakes Jack's bedroom, nearly swallowing his bed.

I like the way that Nancy reads the story in a way that engages not only her child, but the film's audience as well. Her voice matches the emotions of the book's characters, and I could tell that she, like Jack, was fully captivated by the story and was experiencing it, rather than simply reading the words. Nancy has a maternal presence, with a graceful air that I found instantly calming. Jack's character is also worth mentioning, as there is a significant difference between the way he acts before and after Nancy tells the story. At the beginning of the film, Jack is tense and somewhat upset but, as he becomes engrossed in the book, he relaxes and seems at peace by the end of the film, as though it has reassured him.

One thing from The Mood Swing that will definitely stay with me is the music. The gentle twinkling reminds me of the magic of being a little kid, when your imagination could take you up to the stars or to a land of fairies if you just closed your eyes. This is exactly where Jack is as well - his imagination allows him to live inside the book, and to resonate with the book character on a deeper level. My favorite part of this film is the animation. I was especially impressed by the shot showing Nancy and Jack holding the book while animated characters literally dance across the pages.

The film's message is that your emotions can make you feel as if you are losing control and sinking, but by asking for help and learning to cope on your own, you will gain it back and land on the ground.

My Little Babies is about a bunch of stuffed animals being interviewed. Each one talks about its background and tells the story of how they were given to their child. The dialogue for the short film is almost entirely in French, except for a scruffy old bear who uses sign language. There are English subtitles however.

This film is great for any kid who loves their stuffed animal. It is a simple independent film so it doesn't use the highest technology and the camerawork is a bit jumpy at the start. But the essence of the film are the interviews, so it is very much like a documentary where you get to see how the set and lighting are set up. What I most enjoyed about this film is how it humanizes the stuffed animals. It is entirely likable and charming. It is cute to see the stuffed animals moving with the help of strings and their actions match their personalities. The background stories help further define them. For example, there is a monkey who is a retired Ninja; his personality is quite spunky. The scruffy bear is quite shy. All of the stuffed animals look well-loved as they are all quite worn and scruffy. When the stuffed animals tell the story of their first day with their kid, the flashbacks show them as a new stuffed animal and now, years later, we see how worn they have become. I love this element as it makes the film so heartwarming. This film has a documentary feeling to it from the way the stuffed animals are interviewed. All the animals sit on a stool and are animated with strings, which makes it very believable that they are talking. The only sound effects that stand out are the sounds of clicking - like a camera. When the Rabbit, PinPin, talks about meeting his dad for the first time and the many adventures they have, we hear a clicking sound, like a camera, when the photos transition. That effect works quite well. There is no storyline here per se; we simply connect with the stuffed animals as they tell of their experiences with their humans. We get to learn about the relationship between the stuffed animals and their humans. My favorite character is the scruffy bear, Ouse. He is unique because he doesn't speak at all, instead he uses sign language to communicate. This makes him seem very kind and gentle.

The film's message is to cherish your stuffed animals. I'll be snuggling with mine tonight.

In the beginning we see that Beth and her younger sister Liz wake up and rival each other in a race to use the bathroom first. As they scurry to beat each other to the bathroom they do some funny and dangerous things such as Liz catapulting herself to a ceiling fan with floss. They progress through several scenarios in which the bickering continues, and the film ends with a strong lesson in sisterhood and family values.

This film will add value to the KIDS FIRST! Film Festivals with its strong message about sisterly love, family bonding and Indonesian culture. The 2D appeal and smooth animations are wonderful to watch and enjoy. I found myself laughing throughout the film as the sisters hilariously fight so hard just to be the first to use the bathroom! Their other antics are equally funny such as when Liz throws a bath bomb into the fish tank which makes a big explosion and when Liz throws a toothbrush at Beth and Beth's eyes get all fiery. I love the animation, especially at the beginning when we are introduced to the girls' room. It looks very well thought out and is very colorful. The 2D animation is phenomenal; it is very crisp with virtually no lag in the animation. It reminds me of some Disney cartoons I have watched. The film is set in Jakarta, Indonesia and the attire of the characters represents the culture well - everything is bright-colored and representative of their culture. The backgrounds are all amazing, especially those of the house interior. They look exactly what I imagine Indonesian houses would look like and they are very detailed. Even the plants and the geckos throughout the film transport me to Indonesia. The background music is also very good. The opening scene has very calm and tranquil music but soon we are transported into a more chaotic environment with music that picks up in tempo and suspense. The visual effects are also great; for example, when Liz hits Beth with a toothbrush her eyes get all fiery. When Beth sprays Liz in the face with hairspray Liz's eyes turn bloodshot. When Liz throws the bath bomb in the fish tank it makes a big explosion. These are all executed well.

The sisters both grow tremendously in the short time of the film. They start out as both being very selfish and not caring for the other. However, by the end, both Liz and Beth transform into caring sisters that appreciate each other's faults and strengths. Love for each other is ultimately what brings them back together. I have to commend the two directors, Isabelle Maria Tumboimbela and Daisha Lin Sherman for their excellent work; the animation, direction, and storyboarding shine in this film. My favorite part is when Liz gets some floss that she sees on the floor and grabs it so she can catapult onto the ceiling fan to swing to the bathroom. However, she ends up swinging back and forth until Beth turns up the fan speed. Then she starts swinging out of control!

The film's message is that, even though family members sometimes get into skirmishes there will eventually be something that grounds you to make you realize how much you truly love each other. Note that it does show kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. The scene where Liz is sprayed by the hairspray could easily be replicated.

This short animated video focuses on the concept of raising awareness in children about kindness and doing good deeds. The protagonist, Tyrion, practices kindness in a variety of situations and we see how it affects the lives around her, making Tyrion an "everyday hero."

The video demonstrates various acts of kindness in the lyrics and the visuals. It is very simple 2D animation and works well for this presentation. The idea is augmented with a lively music track by Diane Baumann, who is also the writer, director and voiceover talent of the piece. The key character is a purple dog-like character that performs random acts of kindness, such as picking up a wallet for a stranger, planting and watering seeds, carrying packages for someone and being a supportive friend - all of which make the world a better place. Doing kind things makes us all an everyday hero. The opening scene introduces the concept of everyday heroes and introduces us to Tyrion. All of the animation is well executed and very colorful. The entire video has an easy-to-follow message, appropriate for younger audiences and very positive without being cheesy. I commend the animation crew, Jaswinder Singh, Narinder Singh, Gurpreet Sing, for their outstanding work. Ms. Baumann's singing is also commendable. Along with the message about random acts of kindness is one about recycling. Because Tyrion is recycling, he causes a ripple effect for all of his friends to recycle as well.

The film's message is about how spreading random acts of kindness can make the world a better place.

I give Everyday Hero 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 5. By Emma O., KIDS FIRST!

The storyline follows a young girl, Isha, who excels in all subjects at school, to the bewilderment of her instructors. The other kids love her smarty pants attitude as she puts her teachers "in their place." Then, along comes a new English teacher who beats Isha at her game and meets her head on - tit for tat.

Very well produced and delivers a great and timely message. The acting is all spot on, particularly Dipannita Sharma and Suhani, who play Mrs. Khanna and Isha respectively. Also, I have to credit the narrator for his excellent commentary which fills us in on what's going on behind the scenes. The camera work and audio recording are quite good - nothing spectacular but very suitable for this short film. The one shortcoming is the background music which doesn't quite do the film justice - it's rather bland and stock feeling. If I could make one change, it would be to use music that is a bit more contemporary and hip. I love the use of the third wall when the students directly address the camera and make comments about Isha, or the new English teacher, Mrs. Khanna. The script is cleverly written and definitely held my attention as I wondered how Isha was going to maneuver her way around Mrs. Khanna and then how Mrs. Khanna was going to maneuver her way around Isha as they dueled for control. When the script flips and Isha becomes the teacher just desserts are delivered as she learns that teachers don't go home when the bell rings and have to correct the students' work in the evening after school is out, things she never thought about before. When she becomes overwhelmed with work and shows up to class late and her classmates humiliate her, Isha's willingness to be such a smart aleck takes yet another fall.

The film's message is pretty straightforward - reminding us how hard teachers work and how under appreciated they are at time, especially by smarty pants students.

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

One of the standout aspects of Harold and the Purple Crayon is its stunning animation, which brings Harold's drawings to life with vivid colors and fluid movements. The film masterfully blends whimsical drawings with real-world settings, creating a seamless and enchanting visual experience. The storyline is engaging, striking a perfect balance between humor and heartwarming moments as Harold navigates his new reality. The voice acting is superb, with each character adding depth and personality to their roles, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The film's pace is excellent, keeping me hooked from start to finish, with each scene building anticipation and excitement. The creativity displayed in solving problems with the crayon is both amusing and inspiring, showing that imagination knows no bounds.

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

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

By Ari S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

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

Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. When he grows up, Harold draws himself off of the book's pages and into the physical world with his pals, Moose (Lil Rel Howery) and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), where they meet a widowed mom named Terry (Zooey Deschanel) and her still-grieving son, Mel (Benjamin Bottani). Harold discovers that he has a lot to learn about real life and when the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it takes all of Harold and his friends' creativity to save both the real world and his own.

This movie is tons of fun and filled with hilarious hijinks making the impossible possible. I love the comedy, the heartfelt story, the family values and the endless imagination. I really love how they took the book and stretched it out and made it into something amusing and cinematic at the same time. I love watching Harold draw so many things throughout the movie that come to life on the big screen, like a plane, pies, a bike, a tire, and so many other things. Also, there is so much chemistry with all of the characters that you can feel it through the big screen, like when they all work together to help Harold find his dad. There are so many adventures they go on during the film. I love the scene when Harold and Moose go to Terry's workplace and things get out of hand when Harold starts drawing whatever people are looking for. This film has something for everyone - it is a family movie, with layers that adults will enjoy as much as kids.

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

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

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

This film brings all the laughs! Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case. I also found it funny how the scientists wear cowboy hats and boots instead of normal lab coats. Every Texas stereotype is used, including their language. You hear, "I reckon and Dagnamit," and everyone is riding a horse. Sandy Cheeks shows her love for her hometown in a big way. I love how they introduce Sandy Cheeks' family. I did not expect a secret whistle to call everyone together. I also enjoy how Sandy Cheek's family supports what Sandy wants to do since she doesn't want to be in the circus and continue in the family business.

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

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

Certainly, imagination can be fun and there are some clever titles and lyrics here. The artist seems a bit more interested in the groove than the message. The structure, continuity and style of this collection come from a specific genre that the artist is familiar with, which is fine, but it lacks variety in terms of different influences musically.

I had a hard time getting drawn into the content of this album. Though the album is named Imagination Time and includes songs named for werewolves, zombies, dinosaurs and pizza, I wonder how well it connects with the target audience, but let's let the youth reviewers decide. I am curious to see what our younger reviewers have to say to this point.

Many of the lyrics feel somewhat shoe-horned into the verses. The vocalist does not have a lot of range which is not a bad thing but you have to adjust accordingly. There are certainly musical chops evident here, but knowing when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em is critical.

I give Imagination Time With Patrick 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, just because I think younger ones might find things like werewolves scary.

The storyline follows a young girl named Lulu (Jesalie Lopez) who is very pleased with herself for convincing her mother to buy her a pair of light-up sneakers that give her the confidence to stand up to Susie (Alexandra Pierce), who thinks she owns the neighborhood playground. With Lulu's friend group and Susie's posse cheering them on, the girls engage in a dance battle for dominance, both learning a lesson about friendship along the way!

I recommend Light Up Lulu for a youth & family film festival because it is an upbeat and energetic film that younger viewers will enjoy. It offers positive role models that demonstrate the importance of friendship and kindness. The plot development is very fast-paced and doesn't quite give us adequate time to get to know the characters. Of course, this college student film is only seven minutes in length, so that does not allow a lot of time to learn the backstories of the characters. It introduces the conflict immediately and the majority of time is occupied by the girls' dance battle. When Susie and Lulu make up so quickly and begin to play together again, it happens so suddenly and feels unnatural that the girls would put their conflict aside so fact and with no discussion after being at odds for most of the film. The camera work stands out, especially during Lulu and Susie's initial scene together, where they stand facing each other at opposite ends of the screen. Because of the angle that scene is shot at, the conflict between the girls is clear immediately, even before the dialogue begins. Combine that with the soundtrack, the cinematography in this shot makes it reminiscent of a scene from a Western movie in which the two rival characters come face-to-face for the first time. Each scene in the dance battle has its own costume and set which suits the music perfectly. For example, Lulu has a hip-hop segment in which she wears chains, sunglasses and a jacket and dances against a background of silver streamers. Susie does a ballet routine in an elegant tutu, standing on a stage with red curtains. The sets and costumes perfectly set the tone for each of those scenes. The soundtrack is an essential component, as music and dance go hand in hand. Each piece of music fits each dance style well. The background music adds to the film's energy, such as during Lulu and Susie's initial introduction, where foreboding music adds to the already tangible tension.

Though it occurs quite quickly, I was impressed with Lulu and Susie's character development. At the beginning, both girls are arrogant, convinced that the territory "belongs" to them, and reluctant to allow the other to set foot on "their" turf. They act competitive and lofty, thinking the other is inferior and undeserving. However, as the story progresses, they both become more compassionate and learn to respect one another and care about the other's feelings. Susie falls down at the end and, rather than gloating, Lulu helps her up -- and Susie accepts the help without complaint. Both of the actresses are also very promising dancers. I thoroughly enjoyed their performances. The costumes are fantastic. The girls' outfits during the dance battle show that the costume designer has a very good sense of different styles of dance and the attire appropriate for each. I particularly love Susie's ballet outfit. It is a beautiful leotard and tutu with intricate detailing that matches the classical music she dances to. My favorite part of this film is the dance battle between two girls. Though they are dancing for the purpose of fighting, it is harmless and entertaining. The music is so cheerful; I felt like getting up and dancing with them.

The film's message is that friendship comes with conflict, but your best friends are worth fighting for. When given the choice, you should always choose kindness over being right. Disputes happen, but you can choose to resolve them in a creative, peaceful or even fun way, rather than choosing violence. Be aware that it shows kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. There is a scene toward the end that shows a boy intentionally placing something on the ground that causes Susie to slip. She falls, which was clearly what the boy's intent was, though she does not appear to be seriously injured.

The storyline follows a young middle schooler named Mikey, who faces typical issues kids his age do. When soccer tryouts at his school are announced, Mikey decides to try out, even when the antagonist bully, Cleat, challenges him. Fortunately, Mikey's friends pitch in to help him train and eventually face off with Cleat.

The 2D animation of this film is exceptional; it's so well constructed and the characters are absolutely adorable. I love that the key characters are shoes - what an interesting concept - they have hands, mouths and eyes and talk. And the shoes even have a dog. The sign on the wall, "Believe in your dreams" is a reminder of Ted Lasso's sign in the locker room of AFC Richmond. When Mikey decides to try out for his school's soccer team, his friends question him at first, but then support his goal. As Mikey plunges into his practices, his self-confidence builds and, by the time comes to tryout, he is well prepared to face off with Cleat.

This film's message is about building confidence, overcoming fear, taking risks, friendship, and teamwork.

The storyling is told in a duet between a Dandelion and a Daffodil, who sing praises of each other and about the persistence of awaiting for the joy of the coming spring.

Aside from the lovely lyrics and song, the concept of using a VW Beetle and a BW Camper Van as means of transporting these two is just brilliant. The 2D animation is perfect for presenting this story and song. And the layers of images - flowers, cars, locations - are spot on. The cutaways to photos of actual daffodils and dandelions in bloom is a terrific addition. The bees, the drive-in theater, all make lovely additions. You've got to love the outtakes with the dog joining in on the recording session. Truly a joy to watch and any child, especially little ones, will love this.

The film's message is above love and patience, and patience and love.

The storyline follows Gru (Steve Carell) when he fails to capture his old nemesis, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his family is forced into the witness protection program. But, portraying the role of the average next-door neighbor is no easy task for Gru, his wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and their adopted daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Madison Polan). The introduction of the want-to-be villain, Poppy (Joey King), sparks Gru's desire for mischievous adventures, setting the stage for comical chaos with the assistance of his minions.

This is a fun animated film filled with compassion and comedy. Created by Illumination Entertainment, the frantic visual disorder seized my attention and took me on a wild ride filled with glee. The fantastic voice acting makes all the characters likable. Joey King, with her lisp and evil laugh, makes Poppy so menacing and likable. The screenplay by Ken Daurio and Mike White feels familiar and fresh at the same time. Gru's loving relationship with his wife Lucy, baby boy, and adopted daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes remains heart-warming. The introduction of villains Maxime Le Ma, Valentina (Sofia Vergara), and Poppy keep Gru from living a dull life as an anti-villain. One of my favorite scenes is the attempted theft of the honey badger.

The film's message reminds us to stay true to ourselves and to remember that family is essential to our happiness. By embracing his true nature, Gru is able to release the pressures of being an anti-villain and pursue his dreams.

Despicable Me 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18 and adults. It opens in theaters on July 3, 2024.

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

The hilarious super-dad is back! Gru and his family return in the hilarious Despicable Me 4. This movie is action-packed, funny, and shows how important family truly is. It stars many well-known actors, including Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Miranda Cosgrove, Will Ferrell, and Sof�a Vergara.

This comedic film starts with Gru (Steve Carell) and Lucy (Kristen Wiig) doing their best to raise Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier), Agnes (Madison Polan), and the newest member of the family, Gru Jr. (Tara Strong) The family thinks their life has finally gone back to normal, until they find out that Gru's arch-nemeses Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and Valentina (Sof�a Vergara) escaped prison and are out for revenge against Gru, which means he and his family must go into hiding. While staying undercover, each family member encounters different people and different struggles. The Minions are as crazy and shenanigan-filled as ever, but also as caring and protective of the family, no matter the cost.

My favorite characters in this film are the Minions and Poppy Prescott (Joey King). The Minions have always been energetic and filled with slapstick comedy, and they have never failed to make me laugh. I love how the director, Chris Renaud, makes sure the Minions are still the same funny, chaotic characters as they have been since the beginning of the Despicable Me series. I love Poppy because of how passionate she is about becoming a super-villainess. She is also so clever and lovable, which adds to her character. Another part of this film I enjoyed was the creativity of the new villains, Maxime Le Mal and Valentina. The writers, Ken Daurio and Mike White, created two incredible characters with loads of personality, imagination, and evil. The music is especially enjoyable in the movie. For example, there is a song in the beginning of the film called "Double Life" by Pharrell Williams, which is so fun and upbeat. The energy from this song matches the energy of the movie.

The film's message is to never give up and persevere through every situation. Gru always has and always will care about his family. Whenever his family is in trouble, he will always be there to save them.

Despicable Me 4 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 3, 2024.

By Ari P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

What a fun film Despicable Me 4 is. I love this film! It was great entertainment from start to finish and made me laugh the entire time.

Gru and the minions return in this fourth installment, providing humor and entertainment at every turn. Gru is challenged by high school rival, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his female sidekick Valentina (Sofia Vergara) and they're forced to flee to a safe house. As the family takes on new identities, Gru takes the opportunity to bond with his son. More plots emerge as the family struggles with new identities and a neighbor, Poppy (Joey King), knows Gru's identity.

Very entertaining. I will go see it again with friends. The animation and the writing are paired perfectly. Every character has their own story line and each of their own individual journeys contributes to the plot. They are all connected, which makes the film that much more entertaining. One thing I love about Despicable Me 4 is ... the Minions. They're consistent as the main protagonists in the Gru family. They offer constant on-screen antics, and their silly behavior kept me laughing. Whether on a bus, in a vending machine, or in training as the Mega Minions, their attempt to help always creates drama and messes things up. I enjoyed the character of Poppy, who wears braces and has a lisp, which is hysterical. Maybe we will see her in future films. The background music and sound effects enhance the entire film. The sounds in the grocery store scene are great - with screams and pounding footsteps running through the aisles. At other times we hear the roaring of engines, lazar sounds from the Mega Minion, and tires screeching behind the opening music as they drive up into the California hills. This film is great in so many ways.

The film's messages are about bonding with your family, finding a happy place, being true to oneself and protecting your loved ones. Be aware that there are some naughty Minions. Some humor is a bit inappropriate for kids, yet this humor may keep parents engaged. My mom laughed at some of the "adult jokes" and had to explain them to me.

Despicable Me 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages to 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters July 3, 2024. Go check it out.

Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I enjoyed Despicable Me 4! It's full of slapstick comedy plus new and old characters. The animation is so high quality it's despicable.

In the sixth installment of the Despicable Me franchise, Gru (Steve Carell), Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and the girls welcome a new member to their family, Gru Jr. (Tara Strong), who is set on tormenting his dad. And now, because of a new villain named Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his girlfriend (Sof�a Vergara), Gru's family is forced to go into hiding and adopt new identities. Will they take Maxime down or will their cover be blown? Watch to find out!

This movie is really cute, but there is just a lot going on at once. There are several different subplots and a lot of new characters that are crammed into this 94-minute movie, so some scenes feel a bit random and out of place. Nonetheless, this is a great family movie. Its humor is geared more towards younger audiences, but that being said, I and a lot of adults laughed throughout the entire movie. I adore all of the characters in the franchise dearly, but my favorite is Agnes, voiced by Madison Polan. She is so sweet and lovable and always wants to do the right thing. I also really love the performances from Steve Carell as Gru, Kristen Wiig as Lucy, Miranda Cosgrove as Margo, and Dana Gaier as Edith. Pierre Coffin, as always, is so impressive when voicing the minions (yes, all of them). Will Ferrell as Maxime and Sof�a Vergara as Valentina, Maxime's girlfriend, are hilarious and really fit their roles.

The film's messages, similar to the previous installments, focus on the importance of family and doing the right thing. Be forewarned that there are some risky behaviors portrayed in this movie that young children shouldn't try to replicate.

Despicable Me 4 gets 4 of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. People who enjoyed the previous Despicable Me movies will definitely want to see this one. It comes out in theaters on July 3, 2024.

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

Bringing back my favorite yellow-friends, Despicable Me 4 is hilarious, original, and chaotic in the best way. It hits the screen with all the energy expected from the first scene to the last.

Following the prison escape of his arch nemesis Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), ex-villain Gru (Steve Carell) is forced to move into hiding with his wife, Lucy (Kristen Wiig), his three daughters, and his new baby son, Gru Jr. (Tara Strong) After assuming new identities the craziness never fails to follow Gru's family as they meet new neighbors, explore their new lives, and hide from Maxime and his fashionable girlfriend Valentina (Sof�a Vergara). And of course, the minions have their own adventures as well.

Despicable Me 4 flows so smoothly despite all the plot lines going throughout the film. Many subplots are developed and, by the end, they all tie together quite nicely. It's a perfect way to give viewers lots to enjoy without leaving them hanging. The only thing that doesn't have enough attention is the character of Maxime Le Mal -- part of his character is his obsession with cockroaches and he has a whole army of them, but apart from talking to them a bit as his evil army, they don't help execute his master plans. This made me wonder what they were intended for exactly. Besides this, every character is wonderful to watch and I particularly enjoyed Poppy. Voiced by Joey King, Poppy has been born into an uptight family in the town of Mayflower and dreams of becoming an evil villain. I love how she is introduced as kind of a mystery until her intentions are revealed. I enjoyed seeing how dedicated she is to achieve her dreams. The side plot of the minions is not paid a lot of attention to but that never stops the minions from stealing the spotlight. We find five minions with superpowers and the writers have some hilarious situations these minions get into which, of course, all tie back to saving their beloved master, Gru. My favorite part of this film is the last scene where Gru and Maxime have a karaoke competition and perform it at the local jail. In this scene there are nods to all the past movies including the Despicable Me and Minions films. I won't spoil it, but it's a great Easter egg that plays tribute to the previous films.

The film's theme is that nothing is more important than family. Gru struggles to bond with his son and he never stops trying because Gru Jr. is so important to him. Throughout the film Gru is always putting his family first and he never stops fighting for them.

Despicable Me 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters July 3, 2024.

Disney Jr.'s Ariel is based on the classic story and film, The Little Mermaid, and takes you on a musical journey following a young Ariel (Mykal-Michelle Harris) and her friends Flounder (Gracen Newton), Lucia (Elizabeth Phoenix Caro) and Fernie (Cruz Flateau) as they experience various adventures in Atlantica. They use the power of friendship, music, and magic to help each other and their friends throughout the show.

The cast of this series is perfect. The actors really connect to the characters, including the way they look. Mykal-Michelle Harris, who voices Ariel, fits this character perfectly in both her personality and her singing voice. The character designs are amazing culturally as well from the hair, to the skin tones, to their dialect speech. I like that they kept the cultural status of Ariel, even making King Triton and Ursula Black characters. I found it interesting how they gave Ursula more human traits and added a special plot twist to her character, which I love. The music in this series is so fun, catchy, and upbeat! I believe that young people will love it; I honestly feel that it adds more to Ariel, considering her love of music and singing. The design of this show is so colorful and vibrant - it really captures the beauty and uniqueness of the ocean. Each episode is 23 minutes long, with two titles included, so audiences can be entertained for quite some time.

There's a new message in every episode of this series, addressing issues such as friendship, understanding each other, and patience. This series is educational plus it's an entertaining experience that gives parents a break.

I give Disney Jr.'s Ariel 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. Disney Jr.'s Ariel premieres on Disney Junior on June 27, 2024.

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

After the hit 2023 remake of The Little Mermaid, audiences have been waiting to see more of Ariel and her unique adventures. Disney's newest animated series, Disney Jr.'s Ariel, gives us a fresh perspective of Ariel in her childhood. Even though this show is geared toward younger audiences, I definitely enjoyed the show's upbeat and entertaining style.

This series follows eight-year-old Ariel (Mykal-Michelle Harris) growing up in the underwater world of Atlantica. With her best friends Flounder (Gracen Newton), Lucia (Elizabeth Pheonics Caro) and Fernie (Cruz Flateau) she goes on fun and action-packed quests. Ariel's curiosity drives her adventures, inspiring her to collect pieces of treasure and solve problems in remarkable ways.

Disney Jr.'s Ariel is the perfect new show for families, especially those with younger children. The first thing that grabbed my attention when watching Ariel was its use of vibrant colors. The bright pinks, blues, and yellows are perfect for younger audiences, giving the characters energy, and keeping kids engaged in the show even if they can't quite understand the plot yet. A key moment of each episode is when Ariel's tail shimmers and changes colors when she gets an idea, or her emotions change. Not only do those colors provide energy to the show, but I predict the upbeat and catchy songs will help Ariel become a fan favorite. Mykal-Michelle Harris carries the lead role, Ariel, extremely well, showcasing her well-rounded talents as both an actress and singer. Ariel has a star-studded cast, with seasoned actors like Taye Diggs and Amber Riley joining this series as King Triton and Ursula. Each character, old and new, brings a new point of view to the story of the Little Mermaid, making this a thrilling family-friendly show.

There are many positive messages from Ariel, but a prominent one is: don't be afraid of adventure. Ariel is a very curious young girl, and sometimes she faces problems she doesn't know the answer to. However, she stays persistent and makes the best out of every situation, learning something new along the way.

I give Disney Jr.'s Ariel 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find Ariel on Disney Junior on June 27, 2024 and on Disney+ on June 28, 2024. Make sure you check it out!

School of Magical Animals 2 follows a group of students and their talking pets preparing to celebrate their school's anniversary with a musical performance. They want to honor their school by recreating the story of its foundation. The only problem is, they cannot agree on how to do it! Ida (Emilia Maier) is appointed director, but when the school's most popular girl, Helene (Emilia Pieske), attempts to take control, the class is torn. Additionally, the school director, Mr. Siegmann (Justus von Dohn�nyi) has his own vision for the musical and insists that it is followed. With the advice and assistance of the magical animals, the students eventually realize they must join forces, each learning a valuable lesson along the way.

The sets immediately stood out to me, especially the individual characters' bedrooms. The room decorations reflect each of their personalities. My favorite room belongs to Anna-Lena (Lilith Johna). She is a shy but happy, welcoming girl with a wonderful singing voice and a talent for textiles. Her room is covered with beautiful fairy lights, warm pastel-colored cushions, and sewing equipment, because she is sewing the main character's dress for the musical. There is a wooden bunk bed with a ladder and there are plants and vines around the room, in adorable white or neutral pots. Her room looks like it belongs to a garden fairy, which describes Anna-Lena perfectly! Aside from the characters' rooms, the rest of the sets are also beautifully designed, such as the stage for the performance and the set for Ida's rooftop birthday party. Both maintain a light, happy color scheme to support the movie's cheerful tone. They are very detailed as well, with star-shaped cutouts and strobe lights for the stage and a whole snack booth with cafe-style tables set up by the trampolines for Ida's birthday party. The animals are essential to the plot and the character development. Each main character's animal represents either their internal thoughts or a lesson they need to learn. For example, Anna-Lena receives a chameleon named Caspar (Rick Kavanian), who pushes her to overcome her shyness and step out of her comfort zone, even encouraging her to take on the lead role in the musical. And Juri (Axel Stein), Jo's penguin, represents his conscience when he makes a mistake and guides him to the right decision by sharing advice, as well as his own hilarious stories from when he was in Antarctica.

The message of School of Magical Animals 2 is that teamwork makes the dream work! At the end of the film, the students realize that they are more powerful together than apart, and to make their musical the best it can be, they need to work together, share their ideas and listen to others' opinions. Be aware that this film was originally recorded in German and is dubbed in English, with subtitles provided.

School of Magical Animals 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. School of Magical Animals 2 releases in theaters on June 7, 2024.

By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I like the film School of Magical Animals 2. It is entertaining with all the magical animals talking and having fun personalities. I also really like how the animals match their owners' personalities. The movie has a castle in a village for the school which makes the setting very interesting. The only drawback is that, at times, it is a little repetitive.

The storyline follows Ida and Benni who attend the Winterstein School where the students are practicing a musical to show their parents and they sometimes disagree and make each feel upset or left out - but they work it out. At the end when they put on the play something strange happens and they are shocked to find out.

Based on the successful German children's book series by Margit Auer, this film is a blend of CGI animation and live action. What makes it particularly fun is the talking animals, which include a talking fox, tortoise and magpie. Director Sven Unterwaldt beautifully brings this story to life. Ida, a kind and nice girl, is played by Emilia Maier, who portrays her perfectly. Her pet, Rabbat, is wonderfully voiced by Max Von der Groeben. I love watching the magical animals sing, rap, talk, and dance, and at times they advise their human friends. The animals help teach lessons in friendship, perseverance, and the importance of sharing feelings. Another fun fact about the animals is that they can transform into stuffed animals when needed, so they can hide from strangers. Throughout the movie, you see beautiful landscapes and European villages and castles.

The film's message is about teamwork. In the beginning, the children struggle to come together as a team, but when they start to work together they start to accomplish more.

I give School Of Magical Animals 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It is available in theaters June 7, 2024.

By Clara T., KIDS FIRST! Film critic, age 11

School of Magical Animals 2 is an enchanting sequel that absolutely captivated me! This film continues the magical journey with even more excitement, heart, and humor. The combination of great acting, a fantastic soundtrack, and impressive CGI makes it a must-watch for fans of the first movie and newcomers alike.

In this sequel, the students of the School of Magical Animals are preparing a musical for the school's anniversary. However, things don't go as smoothly as planned. With strange holes appearing on the school grounds and the pressure of rehearsals mounting, the students must rely on their magical animal friends to navigate the chaos. Together, they discover the importance of teamwork and friendship in overcoming obstacles.

The lead characters in this film are brought to life by a talented cast. The dynamic between the students and their magical animal companions is both heartwarming and entertaining. The CGI used to create the animals is top-notch, making each magical creature feel real and full of personality. The sets and scenery are vibrant and perfectly complement the magical atmosphere of the story. The costumes are wonderfully designed, adding to the visual appeal of the film. One of my favorite parts of the movie is the cute and enjoyable love story between the two main characters. It's a delightful extension from the first movie and adds an extra layer of charm to the story. The musical numbers are catchy and well-executed, thanks to the great soundtrack. Every element of this film, from the direction to the special effects, contributes to its overall magical feel.

The message of School of Magical Animals 2 is that teamwork and friendship are essential in overcoming challenges. The film successfully conveys this message through its engaging storyline and relatable characters.

School of Magical Animals 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, and adults will enjoy it as well. You can catch this magical film in theaters on June 7, 2024.

In the time-traveling family adventure, Tomorrow's Game, young Daniel De La Rosa, uninterested in baseball despite his legendary uncle, is transported back to 1957 after a mishap with a mysterious recorder. With the help of a spirited girl named Sally and a young commentator named Jorge, Daniel embarks on a mission to return home, discovering a newfound passion for baseball and forging a surprising connection to his family's past.

This family-friendly film masterfully blends time travel and baseball nostalgia, creating a heartwarming and adventurous tale about self-discovery and family legacy. The story kicks off with young Daniel De La Rosa, initially disinterested in baseball despite his legendary uncle, being transported back to 1957. With the help of spirited Sally and young commentator Jorge, Daniel embarks on a mission to return to his own time, discovering a newfound passion for baseball along the way.

Children might enjoy this film for its adventurous time-travel plot and the relatable, likable characters. Daniel's journey from indifference to passion for baseball mirrors many kids' experiences of discovering new interests. The humorous and exciting moments, like Daniel's chaotic first encounter with Sally, keep the story engaging. Additionally, the nostalgic setting and the idea of influencing history provide a fun and imaginative escape for young viewers. The show's well-crafted writing and seamless structure create an engaging flow between past and present. Key moments, like Daniel's first encounter with Sally and his unexpected commentator role, are well-paced, driving his character development. The screenplay balances humor, drama, and adventure, with relatable characters that build empathy. The rich historical setting enhances the narrative, making the story immersive and emotionally resonant, drawing viewers into Daniel's journey. The material is accurate and suitable for its intended age group, using vocabulary and concepts appropriate for children. The dialogue is simple and relatable, avoiding complex jargon. For example, Daniel's explanation of his time travel and the playful banter with Sally, are clear and engaging. The historical references, like the 1957 setting, are presented in an accessible, educational manner.

The film boasts vibrant visuals, with clear, easily identifiable images. The live-action scenes are complemented by well-designed sets and authentic 1957 costumes, enhancing the historical feel. The acting is engaging, especially the dynamic performances by Daniel and Sally. The music is nostalgic, fitting the film's adventurous and heartwarming tone. The promotional image is appealing, capturing the film's family-friendly essence. The only shortcoming may be that the story's premise might feel overly familiar to those who prefer more original narratives. The film encourages critical thinking and problem-solving as Daniel navigates time travel and devises plans to return home. The film supports inquiry into history and sports, making it educational and appropriate for its intended age group, sparking interest in cultural and temporal exploration. The program conveys that discovering one's passion often requires stepping out of one's comfort zone. It highlights the importance of family, legacy, and perseverance.

The film's message is about how one might need to step outside of their comfort zone to discover their passion. It highlights the importance of family, legacy and perseverance. Through Daniel's journey, the film shows that understanding and appreciating history can lead to personal growth and unexpected connections. It teaches valuable lessons about perseverance, family, and embracing new experiences, making it both educational and suitable for its intended age group. It also emphasizes the value of teamwork and friendship in overcoming challenges, encouraging viewers to embrace new experiences and learn from the past.

I give Tomorrow's Game 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is available now in theaters, VOD, AVOD, streaming and through online retailers.

The story takes place in Tuss V., a tiny coastal town in the Arctic where four inseparable friends live among the Puffins. They're naughty and playful and always looking for new adventures. They find something even more valuable than any treasure - meteorite that gives them incredible powers.

This film is very imaginative and very organized, plus I'm impressed by the story development. It has a well-structured plot that beautifully showcases how the four Puffins use their superpowers for good and ultimately triumph over Otto the walrus. The quality of the animation is great - the film constantly switches scenes along with the storyline, and the production is smooth. The background music changes with the development of the plot. For example, when the Puffins are stripped of their food source by Otto, they go to Otto to get back their food, fall into Otto's trick, and are captured and taken to Otto's base camp. Throughout this scene the background music is tense and creates a tense atmosphere. The four Puffins include Tick, the littlest of the team, who is clumsy, naive and has a good heart. He is able to control nature. Pi is the giant of the group; he is moody and impulsive and never gets tired. He is unstoppably strong. Dak is the brains of the bunch; he examines everything very closely. Didi is the most self-absorbed of them all; her powers are being able to break the sound barrier and make time go slower. Johnny Puff (Johnny Depp) is a retired rock star who lives a peaceful life in harmony with nature and can transform into a sneaky ninja warrior. Otto von Walrus is famous for his craftiness and intelligence and his dirty tricks. At the end of the story, Otto's mother visits Otto and instructs him to go on the right track. Under the influence of his mother, Otto gradually gives up his prank plan and reunites with the animals in the town. My favorite scene is the opening scene where Tick, Pi, Dak and Didi are introduced; it beautifully portrays the distinct personality traits of each little auk. It's a captivating and engaging start that draws you into the story from the get go.

The film's message is about the four little Puffins that accidentally discover meteorites with superpowers during their expedition, and they each acquire superpowers and use them for good things, and their secret mission to save the arctic Johnny Pop mission.

I give Johnny Puff: Secret Mission 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8.

This college student made film follows a juvenile robot, named Sprout, who is left a note by his parent about the garden chores he is to accomplish while the parent is at work. Thing go from controlled to chaos fairly quickly and the critters in the garden become helpers as they work to put things back in order once again.

If you have ever gardened, you can relate to this story, where things go amuck without even trying - as critters chomp on the tomatoes and the whole basket of tomatoes falls on Sprout's head. The animation is well done, very smooth and colorful. The background music perfectly backs up the action in the film without being obtrusive. I would enjoy sharing this with young people whether or not they have an interest in gardening.

The film's message is about asking for help in order to get your tasks done.

This film is perfect for kids - it is powerful, creative, and depicts people's unrestrained imagination to create an interesting story. The film is animated and suitable for children. I like the development of the story line, which is composed episode by episode, with each story having a corresponding storyline, just like a short film. It has great characteristics and creativity. In this animation, the backgrounds arrangement are critical for the storyline; for example, when A-Nee-Gu uses imagination to create a dinosaur, the image of a dinosaur appears in the background. The background music is very much in tune with the actual theme, such as A-Nee-Gu's rabbit battle, which features techno electronic sounds, as well as the attack effects of fighting. A-Nee-gu is a very mischievous child in the beginning and he has a rich imagination, like all children. He meets a stray puppy, Donnie, and takes him home. A-Nee-Gu is thrilled when he finds out that Donnie came to Earth specifically to catch imagination worms, and asks Donnie to use them to grant his wish. Although A-Nee-Gu does not believe that the earth will be in danger if he fails to catch the imaginary worm in time, when he really learns that the earth will be destroyed, he enters his father's dream and asks him to trust him this time, expressing his love for him and his own feelings. My favorite part is the scene at the end when A-Nee-Gu learns that the Earth is going to be destroyed by Donnie's team and A-Nee-Guy enters his father's dream and asks him to help them fight together using his imagination. A-nee-gu sincerely expresses his thoughts to his father, even though his father thinks A-Nee-Gu is playing a joke on him, A-Nee-Guy reveals his love and insists on his father joining the fight. At last, his father appears and tells A-Nee-Gu that he will always be proud of him. The image of his dad always supporting him is so moving.

This film's message is about the wonder of imagination. It can be said that many things on Earth come from people's imagination, because only imagination can develop creativity.

Created by Danish filmmaker Maria Mac Dalland, Tiny Toot is an adorable 2D animated series featuring Tony Toot, her cat Gato, her family, Pixie and other friends. Pixie has an oranichopper and is able to shrink Tiny Toot and Gato so they can ride along with him and visit others and learn new things. In this episode they visit the Mushroom Fairies who put on a magic show for Tiny Toot and Gato where they shoot mycelium at a fallen fruit and turn it into fertile soil to help new plants grow. Tiny Toot gets to try out the magic wand herself.

The animation is top notch here with very detailed images and bright colors. The backgrounds are quite wonderful as Tony Toot explores the world around her, led by Pixie the Elf. There is very little dialogue, which is fine because the story is revealed visually for the most part. The background music is upbeat and fun. I was unfamiliar with the Tiny Toot series before so I did a little searching to find out more about it. Other episodes are available on various online sites, if you are curious.

The show's message is about exploring the world around us and learning new things about daily life on our planet.

The connection between a group of children and nature is explored through dance, movement, and sound as the children interact with the forest around them. Join them as they join the chirps, rustles, and dances of the environment around them. This film followed a class of third graders who delved into a multidisciplinary art experiment to explore, understand, and articulate the essence of their local woodland. This non-narrative film invites you to explore a deeper relationship with the forest along with these children.

I found myself mesmerized watching this film in the quiet of my studio, studying the actions and reactions of these children as they respond to the bird sounds in the forest. The camera attempts to capture the essence of their experience and accomplishes that to some degree. My guess is that being there is an even more profound experience. I really enjoyed the pace of this film as it allows one to slowly absorb the children's interactions.

The film's message is about exploring the natural environment around us and to allow ourselves to let it penetrate our being.

The storyline follows a group of elementary school students that have a new student appear on the scene that doesn't speak. But, she seems to have some amazing powers and her "voice" can be hears when she makes arm gestures, which sort of throws everyone off, but intrigues them at the same time. Where is she from? Is she an alien? Does she have special powers? You have to watch to find out.

From an awkward start, it seems that the other kids quickly become accustomed to the new girl who talks without words and they can all understand her. Love that idea. Well made, from concept to execution, this film has a fascinating idea behind the story, great camera work, good audio, good editing. It's definitely a green light for KIDS FIRST!

The film's message is that there are more ways than one to communicate with others.

The story follows the cat, Garfield (Chris Pratt), who has the dream life - a dog best friend, a nice house, and most importantly, access to an endless amount of food. Everything's going perfectly until he reunites with his long-lost father. The animals have a perilous journey ahead of them, having to deal with the conflict between the father-son duo.

I really like this movie because it's super funny but also has deep messages about relationships with important people in your life. Its main characters are Garfield, Vic (Samuel L. Jackson), Jon (Nicholas Hoult), Otto (Ving Rhames) and Jinx (Hannah Waddingham). The characters are unique and represent different emotions - Garfield represents anger, Jon represents anxiety, Vic represents regret, and Otto represents sadness and longing. It illustrates a positive message for the younger generation at the end of the movie. I really like the animation; it's unique and a cool mix of 2D and 3-D awareness of space. There isn't a dull moment in this film. It's constantly engaging, like when they're running from a nasty security guard or dodging ridiculously big cutting knives. I like the pacing; it's not too fast nor too slow. Plus, there are flashbacks to when Garfield was a young kitten, which gives the film a strong backstory. The background music helps set the mood. When it's raining and young Garfield is abandoned, the music is slow and depressing. However, when Odie and Garfield are playing, the music lightens up. My favorite part of the movie is when Vic gets Garfield on the train by launching him off of a tree branch. Garfield bounces off trees, animals, rocks, and more, and it's hilarious to watch.

The film's message is about forgiveness and family. Garfield's dad has a reason he left Garfield, which was actually to help him, rather than hurt him. Vic goes out searching for food and when he comes back, Garfield seems to be happy under Jon's care. Garfield and Vic forgive each other, and become close again.

I give The Garfield Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. The Garfield Movie releases in theaters May 24, 2024.

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

I love The Garfield Movie. It is fun, heartwarming and has a great villain. The animation is stunning and it has some heartfelt moments with an exceptional cast. The film definitely kept me entertained from beginning to end and I was laughing out loud.

Garfield (Chris Pratt), the world-famous, Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat, is about to have a wild outdoor adventure! After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father, scruffy street cat Vic (Samuel L. Jackson), Garfield and his canine friend Odie are forced from their perfectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist. There is nothing not to love about Garfield. He hates Mondays, loves lasagna, and is loyal to his best pals Jon and Odie.

I really love the animation in this film. It is extremely well done -- the way the fur moves and how it looks on all the animals throughout the entire film is stunning. When the fur moves during action sequences and when the heist plans are being made, they even switched the animation style which I thought was particularly cool. I really do not think they could have picked a better cast for this film. Chris Pratt is perfect in the role of Garfield. I love hearing Harvey Guillen as Odie, especially his different barks with different emotions expressed throughout the movie. Hannah Waddingham voices Jinx, a cat who is the villain. She plays a fantastic villain -- she is a little intense, but never too scary even for younger audiences. I like that the plot is made simple so kids can easily understand it and the storyline is so funny. This movie is rated PG; it is 1 hour and 41 minutes and it never drags. I was completely entertained by the entire movie. I left the theater wanting Italian food and a pet.

The film's message is about teamwork, family, and friendship. It shows how family will always be there for you, no matter what. The film shares the importance of doing what is right and being loyal to the people around you.

I give The Garfield Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The Garfield Movie opens in theaters May 24, 2024. Be sure to check it out!

Carter P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The Garfield Movie is an entertaining animated film about a lovable tabby cat and his adventures. I like funny movies and this one definitely falls into that category. I laughed so hard my stomach hurt! This film isn't all jokes though; there are many heartwarming moments as well.

This film starts out by making sure the audience knows just how much Garfield (Chris Pratt) loves Italian food. While eating his morning snack, he begins to tell the story of how he met his owner Jon (Nicholas Hoult) after his own father Vic (Samuel L Jackson) seemingly abandons him. Jon takes Garfield in, and from there he has quite the luxurious life; he gets to sit around all day eating and watching cat videos on TV with his buddies. Unsuspectingly, Garfield is taken from his normal routine and forced to adjust to a world he is not prepared for. On this new journey, Garfield meets lots of new people and learns many new life lessons. With the help of his new friends and his dad, Garfield learns to be independent. Garfield eventually makes his way home to a new normal that he helps create.

The Garfield Movie is an animated film that personifies everything from ordinary house pets to farm animals. The animation is very well done and the colors used are an iconic part of what makes Garfield, Garfield. The music used throughout this film really helps set the vibe at crucial moments, such as when Italian music plays at the local Italian restaurant and familiar "danger" music plays during action scenes. My favorite character is Garfield because he is hilarious, loves Italian food, and hates Mondays! The selection of voice actors for each character is also spot on. When Roland the dog (Brett Goldstein) fakes a British accent to make Jinx (Hannah Waddingham) more comfortable, then switches back to his New York accent at the end, the talent of this voice actor really shines through.

The film's message is that you should never judge others without knowing their full story. You may think that you know how something happened, but it's important to get all the information. This message is successfully delivered through the development of Garfield's relationship with his father. Note that this film does contain some violence; although delivered in a funny way, some parents may be uncomfortable with their kids watching such aggressive behavior.

I give The Garfield Movie 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is available exclusively in movie theaters beginning May 24, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

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

I have always loved all things Garfield, so I was expecting to love The Garfield Movie--and I do! The film remarkably captures the essence of Garfield, and I couldn't think of a better movie to bring Garfield back to the big screen where he belongs -- and with a talented star-studded cast.

The story follows Garfield (Chris Pratt) who has an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father Vic (Samuel L. Jackson) when Jinx (Hannah Waddingham) -- the movie's crazy vengeful antagonist -- kidnaps both Garfield and his fellow pet Odie (Harvey Guill�n). Jinx forces the two of them from their perfect (marred only by Mondays), pampered, luxurious lives into joining Vic in a high-stakes heist as revenge against Garfield's father. The plot is tied in with so much humor and so many plot twists overall making it a fun family comedy.

Chris Pratt's voice suits Garfield perfectly, and he brings the right attitude and edge to the character. Samuel L. Jackson wonderfully conveys emotion into his character, Vic (Garfield's father) so as a viewer, you really end up feeling for his character. And Hannah Waddingham is outstanding as Jinx, Garfield's antagonist. She voices Jinx as maniacal and flamboyant but she also brings heart and soul to Jinx, making viewers sympathize with Jinx's motivations. Hannah Waddingham also has two songs in this movie: An original called "I'm Back" which rolls over the end credits and a rendition of the French nursery rhyme "Alouette, Gentille Alouette", the latter of the two occurring in my favorite Jinx scene. The Garfield Movie is really funny. I especially like the parts with Jon (Nicholas Hoult) in them. I do feel like there is a huge effort to make Garfield more modern in this movie... there are lots of pop culture references. In some cases it's done very well, but the movie overdoes this. Garfield calls himself "G-money" and makes shark tank references. And The Garfield Movie has a huge fixation on mobile devices. The film loses out on a very important nostalgic aspect of the film by attempting to adjust Garfield to better match the present-day audience. Garfield is relatable to modern kids and loved by the modern audience not because he has a phone. As Garfield's creator, Jim Davis says, "Garfield is a human being in a cat suit". The film does flesh out his character and I really enjoy seeing it. Yes, his adventures are significantly wilder but that just makes them more fun to watch.

The message of The Garfield Movie revolves around the importance of family and connection. It explores themes of sacrifice, the unseen presence of love, how misunderstandings can change your whole worldview, and the deep (sometimes hidden) bonds that define family.

I give The Garfield Movie 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2-18, plus families as well as all fans of the lovable cat. Look out for The Garfield Movie, which opens in theaters May 24, 2024.

The storyline follows a kid having issues with his locker as others come to his rescue or not. And, at one point he discovers that his lock is a portal to another place.

Well made. Good camera work; good audio; good storyline. My favorite part is when the red-headed kid finally gets his locker open and it opens up a portal to another universe where he meets his double. Then, that double follows him back. It's cute, it's original. It's a great student film by elementary age students.

The film's message is about how our lockers might lead us to a life adventure we hadn't even imagined.

The stories follows a snail moving at a snail's pace that runs into a three-legged dog, a Boerboel, that attracts its attention and the two of them form a relationship of sorts.

This short animated film is just adorable. I love everything about it especially the dog and the dog's face in particular - well, maybe its wagging tail as well. Seeing the snail climb up the dog's face and its reaction by a tail wag is just adorable. He takes the snail over to eat a little greenery and watches.

The film's message is that friendship can be formed by the most unlikely critters, even a dog and a snail.

The film features an animated baby dancing joyfully to a sweet lullaby. It opens and closes with a shot of a real baby in its crib.

I love the lullaby here; sung by Nelly White, from Turkey, it's very sweet and compelling. I wanted to hear more of it! Nelly's voice is very soothing and clear. The animated baby's movements are so true to form, it's almost as if a real child is moving. The glitter might be a bit over the top, but hey, each to their own.

The film's message is simply about the fantasy of sleep and the innocence of childhood.