Ages 2-5 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

Lilo & Stitch (2025) brings the adored animated film of the same name from 2002 to life. Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a lonely Hawaiian girl who lives with her older sister, Nani (Sydney Agudong) after their parents sadly pass away. Lilo discovers an adorable, but very chaotic fugitive alien named Stitch (Chris Sanders), who she teaches the meaning of "ohana," which means family, while he helps mend her own.

This remake stays pretty true to the original story with a few minor differences and the addition of a few new characters. I love the designs of Stitch and the other aliens, like Pleakley and Jumba, as they stay very true to their original characters from the animated version but have more realistic textures and qualities to fit a live action movie. Stitch somehow looks even more adorable as a live action alien, kind of reminding me of Baby Yoda. Maia Kealoha, who portrays Lilo, is precious and I was rooting for her the whole way. This movie is her big screen debut, and she is incredibly talented, especially considering that her co-star is completely CGI. Nani and Lilo's bond is explored more in this movie which I like as they really emulate a sibling relationship, but I wish that more of Stitch and Lilo's bond was explored as their connection feels a little rushed. Chris Sanders returns to voice Stitch's iconic voice which really helps keep the magic of the original movie as most of the other characters are played by new actors. One of my favorite characters from this movie is a new one, Tutu, played by Amy Hill. She actually had a small role in the original film, and now she plays the sweet and lovable neighbor of Lilo and Nani. Overall, I definitely prefer the original animated Lilo & Stitch movie from 2002 but this version is still worth the watch for young kids and Stitch fans.

The film's messages are about the importance of fighting for your family and a reminder that everyone is capable of change. It also displays the importance of strength, resilience and forgiveness during difficult times.

I give Lilo & Stitch 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on May 23, 2025.

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Lilo & Stitch is such a beautiful movie, not only visually but also in its story. I was in awe at so many points and felt so many emotions throughout the movie thanks to the incredible cast and crew.

Taking place in Hawaii and based on the 2002 animated film, the story follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a little girl struggling with being in a broken family, as she befriends Stitch (Chris Sanders), an alien hiding from being captured once again. Through this relationship, her small family attempts to stick together while keeping this strange pet.

The film's cinematography is gorgeous with so many wonderful shots capturing the beauty of the Hawaiian island of Oahu where it was shot. I love the shots on the water, especially when Lilo, Nani, and Stitch are surfing. The soundtrack also adds to the film and fits the mood needed for each scene. The upbeat songs during the surfing scenes or when Lilo and Stitch are playing are particularly enjoyable. The acting is incredible; all the actors have great chemistry with each other. The standout is the relationship between Lilo and her sister Nani (Sydney Agudong), who genuinely feel like they are sisters. I found myself becoming attached to the characters and getting emotional at times. The humorous script and the actors' comedic timing are impeccable. The CGI is extraordinary - everything is so detailed, especially Stitch.

The film's message is about families sticking together, regardless if they are related by blood or not. Be warned that there are some intense fighting sequences.

I give Lilo & Stitch 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. It releases in theaters on May 23, 2025.

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

Disney's live action Lilo & Stitch brings a fresh retelling of the classic story about the sense of family. I like how the film combines beautiful settings and themes of love, acceptance and family.

Set in the Hawaiian Islands, the story of Lilo and Stitch follows a girl with a really big imagination named Lilo (Maia Kealoha). Throughout the story, she and her sister, Nani (Sydney Agudong), struggle with the loss of her parents and Lilo feels out of place in her community. Then one day, Lilo meets a strange creature who she thinks is a dog named Stitch (Chris Sanders). At first, Stitch does nothing but cause destruction in their household. This provides an even bigger challenge for Nani because she has stepped into the role of a parent. Originally Stitch was exiled from his own planet, but after seeing the bond of their family, the Grand Councilwoman (Hannah Waddingham) lets him live with Lilo.

I love the setting on the island of Oahu; it is filled with vibrant colors and beautiful trees and flowers. The acting is terrific, especially newcomer, Maia Kealoha, who is incredible as Lilo. Her tone brings a mix of happiness and sadness at different times; she never fails to have great facial expressions and reactions. Sydney Agudong is awesome in the role of Nani; she is great at showing her love, strength and how stressed she is when trying to be a good mother. And I really love the relationship between Lilo and Nani because it is so nice how they always believe in each other. I also love how in times of struggle, they manage to work together. Chris Sanders comes back to voice Stitch. Even though Stitch doesn't talk as much, Chris Sanders puts lots of emotion into his growls and little laughs. One of my favorite characters is Agent Cobra Bubbles played by Courtney B. Vance. At first, Vance shows up as an intimidating character, but as the movie continues, we see that he only wants what is best for the girls. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family and the film talks about how nobody in your family gets left behind or forgotten.

This film's message is about family. This is a big theme in this story. No matter how much trouble Lilo or Stitch cause, they stay as one big family with Nani. We are also reminded that it is okay to be different. Lilo is different from other kids her age and is made fun of. Stitch doesn't know how to fit in and thinks that he is just tearing the family apart. However, the two sisters and Stitch find a way to keep going and work hard.

I give Lilo and Stitch 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on May 23, 2025

Resilience is paramount to survival and love from family and friends keeps us going.

Thank you Austin Geiger for an encouraging short film. We look forward to seeing more from you.

This student made film, by sixth grader Austin Geiger, is well producer with clear video and audio and terrific editing. Kudos to Austin for his excellent work. I particularly enjoyed listening to the different experts lending information about the alpacas and, of course, meeting the alpacas themselves. They are so cute!

The film's message is informational - teaching us all about alpacas.

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.

The film follows three girls - tweens or young teens - who turn up at their soccer field, ready to practice only to learn that practice has been cancelled due to the "too hot" weather. "Not again," one says. That results in their turn heading over to the playground and beginning a "clap song" that takes them into a montage of activities while embracing healthy lifestyle activities like biking, riding scooters, shopping locally with reusable shopping bags, recycling, as they engage other kids and adults in the joy and spread the word.

The production values of this short film are just terrific, from the cast to the locations. The camera work is great and the editing is even better. The song that accompanies it becomes its own character and, together with the clapping, creates an upbeat pace that moves the film along quickly and smoothly. I love the variety of activities shown - from riding scooters to dropping off a book at the local mini library -- and the easy interaction between the main characters and their friends, young and old.

The film's message is about taking care of Planet Earth, our home. Turn something negative into something positive and support a healthy lifestyle. Kudos to Livia and Corey Beasley for creating such an upbeat, informative film. And to Otto Gross for producing the music, featuring the voice talent of Jayna Gross and Livia Beasley.

The story follows a group of students headed to the cradle of humankind for their school trip, however one student stands out the most - Buhle. With her enthusiasm for fossils she finds herself in a new location and enjoying herself. However she doesn't realize what her friend is going through in order to avoid trouble from the teacher.

This is an 2D animated film that is very detailed. I really enjoyed the look of the film, especially the different characters. It has sort of a comic book vibe to it, which is fun. The story develops in a logical way. It shows how everything is interlinked like how Buhle finds herself in a cave and meets the scientist. The plot is easy to understand and well structured. There are so many good closeups of the characters; the animation is well done and the camera captures all the various points to make it Interesting. I like Buhle's character; she helps highlight the importance of following one's passion - this can be seen at the end of the film when she gets recognition. The story also includes a bit of time traveling to help explain certain parts of the fossils' history. I like the part when the crystal Buhle has activates the "SuperScientists" themselves. I liked the teacher; it was hard to clearly hear her name, but she is really interesting and funny. The teacher also notices that Buhle is missing and is concerned for her safety. In the end she is proud of her.

The film's message is that young children should be able to step out of their comfort zone and discover the world of science. It teaches us about the importance of Fossils and their contribution to understanding mankind.

This film shares three amazing stories about the indomitable spirit of human nature. We are introduced to three people who, with science, technology, love, and strength, have overcome what was previously considered impossible odds. We are introduced to a nurse who travels the world with a heart given to him through scientific technology. He uses his heart, metaphorically and literally, to climb mountains and help the blind see. Next, we meet a man, his wife, and his young son who, after losing his leg, finds the strength to continue to build a community and not give up. Last, we meet a young woman who, as a child, benefited from immunotherapy technology that allowed her to live cancer free, going against the usual path of remission.

This film touched my heart in a way that no other has. It put me through waves of emotions - even making me cry at some points. This title is often held loosely and, in my opinion, this is the best movie of the year. Each story warmed my heart more than the next. It truly made me see how all the scientific advancements that humanity has made over the years have impacted our health care. Produced by MacGillivray Freeman Films, known for their extraordinary documentaries, Superhuman body: World of Medical Marvels is superbly made and one of the most inspiring I have ever watched; it truly encourages you to enter the vast world of science. My favorite part of this film is learning about a girl who is diagnosed with leukemia, is cured by the invention of T-cell immunotherapy and able to continue her life. The film's lesson is that, with the power of science, anything is possible. It also reminds us that the scientific world grows with each passing moment, so no matter how you're held back, there's always a way in science to move you forward.

I give Superhuman Body: World Of Medical Marvels 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It is available at the California Science Center and other select theaters now.

The story follows two children, Lindy and Clay, who escape the eyes of their school principal by hiding in a closet only to discover a flute that plays itself and mysteriously takes them back in time to meet none other than Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his colleague, the renowned flutist Johann Baptist Wendling. This short film is the beginning of a series of films built around historical musical figures.

As much as I found this film enjoyable, some things bothered me, such as the time travel aspect. The kids go back in time to the late 1700s and are hardly ruffled by the experience. They land in the middle of a practice session with Mozart and Wendling who are hardly affected by their arrival. That just doesn't quite make sense because this would be a very big deal for all the parties in the room. Putting that aside, they begin to engage in a discussion of music, which is the best part of this film.

This short film is well made; you can see that the director and writer did their homework as everything appears to be pretty authentic. The camera work, audio recording and editing are spot on - nothing spectacular but very serviceable. I did find the audio level a bit low and had to turn the volume up as high as it could go in order to hear the dialogue. At times the background music overpowers it. I particularly enjoyed the set design which gives a good vibe of the time period, and the costumes for Mozart and Wendling are definitely a highlight. The background music is outstanding - I especially like how it continues at the end, even after the credits. The acting is all pretty good. The kids are terrific and the two musicians are well cast - their portrayals of the four characters definitely engage you in the story. There is some humor, such as when Clay talks about dead people and Mozart replies, "I'm not dead yet."

The film's message is about the origins of music and the influence of musicians historically.

The story follows two young friends, Boog and Shoot, who find a terrific red balloon and go off to search for its owner.

The production is well made, with good camera work, audio recording, editing and acting. I especially like the two main characters, Boog and Shoog, who lead the story. Their authenticity in trying to be helpful shows great role modeling. The dialogue is cleverly written, with lots of humorous elements - such as naming a business Twin Leeks Balloon Repair and a sign on the wall of a safety-pin with a line through it to indicate no safety pins allowed here. It involves a bit of problem-solving, which involves the audience. Some of the characters are oversized letters with lips that move when they speak. Ultimate the owner of the balloon is discovered and it's a fun plot twist.

The film's message is about friendship and having an adventure with your BFF.

This movie tells about the disastrous vacation of a Mexican American family that has lost touch with their roots. Alexander (Thom Nemer) is a very unlucky 11-year old who is terrified to learn that his heritage involves a cursed idol. He becomes determined to turn his bad luck around by returning the idol to its rightful home. Unfortunately, this means taking an eventful road trip to Mexico City with his family that will leave a lasting impression on not only Alexander's family, but everyone they encounter.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is full of belly laughs. I especially love how the family struggles to hold onto a vehicle. They start their trip with a fancy, high end RV and conclude their trip stranded and hanging on by a thread. It is also clever how the movie adds tiny comedic moments to every scene. One instance of this is when the family has to change clothes due to a very stinky chance meeting with a skunk. It is entertaining to try to read the T-shirts they are forced to change into. My favorite is the shirt that Grandma Lidia (Rose Portillo) has to wear which says, "Britney Spears Changed My Life." Another memorable moment is the interaction with the shop clerk, Claudio (Harvey Guillen). His reaction to the cursed idol was priceless and cracked me up. He is so dramatic and colorful. Everything he does is amusing, from putting on gloves to touch the idol to purifying the negative energy with sage once the idol leaves. He really adds some flare to the show.

The film's message is that if bad luck is all you look for, then you'll definitely find it - a positive mindset is everything. It also shows the importance of appreciating your heritage. This show is family friendly, but be aware there are some dangerous stunts and some bad language.

I give Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It began streaming on Disney+ on Friday, March 28, 2025.

By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

The book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day was released in 1972 and in 2014, was adapted into a film, starring Jennifer Garner and Dylan Minette. Now, 11 years later, this sequel is being released and unfortunately, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip doesn't quite have the magic that made us love the original so much.

Misfortune follows Alexander (Thom Nemer) wherever he goes - he was just born unlucky. When his mother Val (Eva Longoria), a magazine travel writer, gets a new assignment -- driving a state-of-the-art RV to Mexico -- and turns it into a family road trip, Alexander is absolutely convinced something will go wrong. The way he sees it, if he's going, how could something not? The night before the family is set to leave, Alexander finds an old idol in the attic that belonged to his great great grandfather. Alexander's grandfather Gil (Cheech Marin) tells the whole family the story of how the idol originally gave good luck but when it wasn't returned, that luck turned rotten. Alexander decides to take the idol along with them because perhaps it is what is causing the bad luck of the family instead of him and they could return the idol to Mexico.

I love seeing how Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day evolved to a whole series. I grew up with the original book and I watched the 2014 movie when I was younger and I was very excited to see this sequel. I also really like that they made the family Latinx this time. It gives the story a fresh face and lets viewers learn about other cultures, in this case the Garcia family is also Mexican. A huge part of the movie is the family connecting to their roots and even the actors have commented on how the film affected them in that way. On the other hand, one of the problems with the film is that it doesn't directly remind you of the book it's based on. Fans of the book know that Alexander's whole deal is that he was born unlucky and that his misfortunes, more often than not, bleed over to his family. The film doesn't address this and assumes audiences either know it or leaves it for them to figure it out. One of the first depictions of "bad luck" in the film is when Alexander's sister Mia (Paulina Chavez) backs into a fire hydrant while scrolling on her phone with Alexander in the passenger seat. Both Mia and Alexander blame Alexander and his luck, although it seems unrealistic to blame this incident on Alexander's bad luck. A family road trip where just about everything goes wrong is not a new concept. Less than ten minutes in, I was reminded of the film, RV. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip is predictable and there's nothing unique about it. At the same time, it is a fun watch and, while the comedy falls flat here and there, it is a funny film.

The film's message is about luck. The movie naturally made me think about the nature of luck. There are people that believe in karma; people that believe in fate and destiny; people that believe luck is complete chance...and so on.

I give Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12 plus families. It releases exclusively on Disney+ on March 28, 2025.

This animated short shows the effects of plastic in our lives by creating a Mandela of plastic articles used in our homes, our lives, our kitchens. At the end, it shows the negative impact on our environment from all this plastic.

This is a cleverly created short animated film that slowly builds a Mandela made of bits of plastic items common to everyday lives. The narration enhances the impact of the film, reminding us of where these things come from and how they are so prolific in their use across the world.

The film's message is about the overuse of plastic in our lives.

I give this film 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to12.

This animated short is a visual collage of images accentuated by a poem about a waterway that used to be and background sounds of water playing in a stream.

The soft colors of the film capture the essence of water in a constantly changing way. Water is always changing, from moment to moment. This waterway apparently has become lost in time but was once part of a bigger network of waterways. It reminds us that life is change. The narrator's voice as she reveals the poem is soft and alert.

The film's message is about change, like a flowing river.

This feature length film tells the story of a young girl, Torsha, who comes from a privileged family, befriends a group of underprivileged children who live in a slum built on government land. Their community takes her in as one of their own. When the government makes a move to destroy their homes and kick them out, Torsha appeals to her dad, the District Magistrate, to stop the catastrophe and save their community.

This is a beautifully made film, with terrific camera work, audio recording, editing, and acting.

The girl, Torsha, is named after the prime river that runs through the West Bengal state and symbolizes support for its people. She lives up to her name by befriending children from the slums when the children from her own school won't play with her. She finds a new loving community there and discovers the extent to which poverty affects their lives - taking on teaching them how to read and write. Her father is an honorable man, and one inclined to fairness, rather than following political mandates. When he learns from her that her friends' houses will be demolished, things begin to change.

The film's message is about loving our neighbors and making things fair when they are not.

I give Torsha - The Name Of A River 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.

The story follows a young girl from Qatar whose precious necklace is stolen by a mischievous parrot. She chases the bird into the wilds, and up a tree trying to recover her beloved possession.

An introverted Qatari girl ventures into a wild valley, risking her life to reclaim her precious necklace from a mischievous parrot.

I really love the animation in this film. The characters are quite adorable, especially the little girl, but the parrot is full of personality also. When it grabs her necklace from around her neck, the girl has no choice but to go after it and we watch her travel through forest areas and streams only to discover that the bird has taken her necklace high up in a gigantic tree. I love the colors of the film, there is no dialogue, but the pictures tell the entire story. The girl climbing the tree is perhaps something that kids might try to replicate but, let's hope they realize it's a fantasy. When she finally rescues the necklace it is broken and she cries. The bird realizes that it has made a mistake and brings her something to replace it, then rubs its head against hers in an effort to apologize. She climbs to the top of the tree and sees the how beautiful the world from up there. The bird sees the beach, flies down to the beach, the girl follows, and they find a pearl in a shell to replace her previous shell pendant in the necklace.

The moral of the story is that things aren't always as they seem and sometimes a mix-up can lead to something even better.

The short film, created by a group of students, tells the story about a public pool in Vancouver, BC that was desegregated in 1945 to allow Blacks and Asians access.

The archival images tell the story along with its narration, based on a poem created from work by 27 fourth and fifth grade students. Its message about desegregation is poignant and relatable, especially in the moment of time we are living in now. The production values are serviceable - not great - but they do get the job done.

The film's message is about the history of segregation in Canada in the mid 1900s.

The storyline follows a young boy, Pablo, who cares deeply for his hen, Pascualina and collects her eggs daily to help his mother pay off a debt. Enroute with a basket full of eggs to pay Don Chucho, Pablo falls and all the eggs are smashed. Don Chucho holds Pascualina hostage until Pablo can replace the promised eggs. Dejected, Pablo comes across a group of kids and is challenged to a spinning top game, which he wins. Unfortunately, his prize -- a carton of eggs -- is withheld, but fortunately, the other kids rally to make up for the lost eggs, each donating two eggs until Pablo has enough to pay Don Chucho and rescue Pascualina.

This is life in a simple village and a simple story of a boy, his hen, and the ups and downs of delivering eggs to pay the piper. It is told in a straightforward way, that brings out the beauty of the village and the interconnectedness of its residents. I commend writer / director Luber Yesid Zu�iga Ordo�ez for delivering a beautiful film. The camera work, the audio recording, the editing are all top notch. The cast is quite wonderful and believable. Young Thomas Ramirez Alvarado, who plays Pablo, definitely steals the show. But all of the secondary characters are equally well played.

The film's message is about community and helping each other.

The story follows two boys who are waiting after school for their parents to pick them up and apparently, it is not unusual for their parents to be late. The plot twist at the end is everything.

This is a well-produced film that in 3 minutes makes a big statement about compassion and kindness. The camera work, audio recording, and editing are excellent. The two actors that portray the boys are typical of boys this age. The dialogue is in Persian with English subtitles. The best part is the end when we realize why one of the boys was waiting with the other and see his compassion and kindness as his motivation.

The message is about taking care of others, even when it may take time away from other things.

I like the way the show is formatted. There are two episodes presented here in this 16-minute clip, each running about 8 minutes. It's short, sweet, and to the point. In the first episode we learn how a VCR works. I questioned why that the focal point since VCRs are pretty much antiques in today's media landscape, but nonetheless, that's the starting point. The other episode is about the White House and what happens in the different floors and wings of this all important building. Did I learn some new things? Yup, I definitely did, in both segments. I probably wouldn't start with the VCR segment since most kids have no idea what a VCR is. They have moved on to DVDs and digital programming. But hey, I'm not the producer here and I love learning information, even if it's somewhat antiquated.

The film's message is all about learning how different things work.

This show is about a girl named Jane (Ava Louise Murchison), who is passionate about saving endangered species and the environment. Her idol is famed animal rights activist, Jane Goodall, who helped ignite her passion for animals through a news broadcast. Jane loves that she shares the same name with Ms. Goodall, and she even names her stuffed chimpanzee, Greybeard, after one of the chimpanzees that Goodall observed in the wild. She works side-by-side with her best friend and neighbor, David (Mason Blomberg), to determine the best way to learn more about each episode's featured creature. Jane believes that knowledge is important, because if you do not know about an animal, how can you help them? Each episode takes the viewer through a colorful and imaginative journey to save each animal and the planet.

Jane was so much fun to watch. The characters' use of their imagination is impressive. I love how no place was off-limits for creativity. Jane and David use a shopping cart and a shopping basket during a grocery store visit to represent cages. In their minds, they are working together to tag a shark in the ocean for research. They even play pretend in the principal's office, when they got into trouble for protecting a beehive. The principal leaves, and they immediately jump into their make-believe bee mobile to go "see" how they can solve the problem of the declining bee population. The computer generated animals are entertaining to watch. Jane and David interact with them as if they are real. Jane never has a dull moment, and the viewer is consistently learning new things every second of the show.

The show's message is that people must speak out for those that can't speak for themselves. Animals are becoming endangered and / or extinct, because no one is taking care of them. It is important to learn about all of the Earth's creatures, otherwise, the results will be devastating. This show is very kid friendly and parents can feel comfortable letting their children watch this show.

Jane: Season 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Season three premieres globally on Friday, April 18 on Apple TV+.

The show features Jasmine Finch (Brianna Fynch) and her bandmates following their aspirations and encouraging the rest of town to do the same. However, in a society where everyone's career is chosen for them by being 'painted on' at high school graduation, it's a rough journey. Jasmine understands that she and her pals act on their own if they want to make a difference.

This show truly surprised me. This is one of the few children's shows that has such advanced plot points - the concept is truly dystopian. The theme of standing up for your individuality provides an amazing example for kids. Not only does the show have great themes but the world building is unmatched. The town has beautiful color schemes and small details that really add to the story. For example, in episode two we find out that the local bakery only serves one cupcake flavor - vanilla. This small detail is perfectly placed and really expresses the reserved nature of the setting. Not only this, but the character design and costumes are outstanding. Each 'bear' is a different color and has a different hairstyle. One bear named Holly Honeywell (Skyla I'lece) has a beautiful golden color and sparkly red hair; the design is absolutely adorable and fits the show very well. Additionally the soundtrack of the show is exceptional. The songs have catchy tunes, thought provoking lines, and upbeat tempos. The song 'Rise Up' carries a beautiful message with a pop tune. One line is "forget what you've been told. Time to go big and bold." This line is extremely heartfelt and adds to making this show amazing.

The show's message is that you should never hide your true colors.

I give Be@rbrick 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. You can watch it on Apple TV now.

Based on the 1937 classic Disney animated film, the story follows Snow White (Rachel Zegler), a princess who was hidden away by her stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), after her father left. After having enough of her stepmother, Snow White joins forces with seven dwarfs to bring her kingdom to peace once again while they help her take down the Evil Queen.

The songs in this film, composed by Jeff Morrow, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, are expertly crafted and catchy. Every song got stuck in my head until I heard the next one, and the incredible voice talent enhances them even more. My personal favorite has to be "Whistle While you Work" - Rachel Zegler's voice brings incredible energy and whimsy to the song, plus I love how the whistling is used in it. The sets and cinematography, directed by Mandy Walker, are also beautiful - the lighting stands out as it works perfectly and mixed with the magnificent sets creates a fantastic looking film. One shot I really love is when we first see the cottage in the forest. The costumes, designed by Sandy Powell, are also quite beautiful; however they don't all seem to go together. Each set of costumes feels like it was meant for a different time period, which feels a bit disconnected. I really like the Evil Queen's costumes; they're flawless and not only fit the kingdom, but also her character. The characters are really well scripted, and I love the actors for each of the key characters. I especially love Rachel Zegler's performance; the amount of emotion she shows brings so much life into her character and made me feel really sympathetic for her. This film had me enchanted the whole time through its story, songs and acting.

The film's message is to follow your morals and beliefs, even if it may not present easy decisions. Be warned that there are intense scenes and blood shown at some points.

I give Snow White 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to12. It releases in theaters March 21, 2025.

By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Disney's new live-action Snow White takes the beloved 1937 classic and gives it a fresh, modern twist. This enchanting film is a timeless tale that appeals to audiences of all ages, with its powerful message about teamwork, friendship, and fighting for what's right for both the kingdom and its people.

Snow White (Rachel Zegler) is reimagined as a strong, independent young woman, reflecting today's spirit of girl power. This version of the character goes beyond the traditional princess, showing resilience and determination. The film also introduces a new love interest, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap), a charming, Robin Hood-esque character, instead of the usual prince. Alongside the Seven Dwarfs and a group of courageous villagers, they unite to confront the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), whose ambition for wealth, power, and beauty drives her to darker lengths.

This movie is pure magic, with moments that evoke the nostalgia of the animated classic and brought me to tears. The familiar songs, like "Heigh-Ho" and "Someday My Prince Will Come," were spot-on, and I found myself singing along to every song. One of my favorite moments is when the Huntsman (Ansu Kabia) chooses not to harm Snow White and instead urges her to flee into the forest. The scene where Snow White, lost and frightened, discovers a breathtaking sanctuary surrounded by incredible animals is truly unforgettable.

At its heart, Snow White carries a message of kindness, compassion, and the importance of helping others. It reminds us that no matter where we come from or how much we have, the love and support of those around us is priceless--and it's something no one can ever take away.

I give Snow White 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for all ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It opens in theaters on March 21, 2025!

By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Who doesn't love a fantasy film? One that takes us to an enchanting land we can only dream of? The long-awaited, live-action version of the classic fairytale, Snow White (1937), is finally here. Combining a star-studded cast with catchy music, and mythical CGI, Snow White is a breath of fresh air that I thoroughly enjoyed.

This story follows a young princess, Snow White (Rachel Zegler), who is known for her kindhearted spirit and unparalleled beauty. When her stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot) acts on her burning desire to be the "fairest in the land," Snow White joins forces with seven dwarfs and a strong-willed commoner, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap). Together, they embark on a quest to free the kingdom of the queen's overbearing rule.

Snow White is a modern day movie-musical and Rachel Zegler' vocals demonstrate her musical theater background and her vocal training. Instead of relying on her falsetto voice for the entire film, she incorporates her vocal dexterity during the more complex sections of the music. Zegler's vocal versatility highlights Snow White's inner growth and confidence as she prepares to face the Evil Queen. The plot of Snow White is slow-paced until it approaches the ending, where the main conflict seems to be brushed over, which detracts from the dynamics of the story. The coloring used in the film stands out as it enhances Snow White's character and her status in the kingdom. Snow White wears bright red, blue, and yellow, while the Evil Queen and the citizens of the kingdom are in dark and bland colors. Snow stands out as the brightness that the kingdom relies on to unite them through unfortunate times. In addition to live actors, the famous seven dwarfs and various animals that Snow White encounters are presented through the magic of CGI. The animals have realistic features but are mythical enough to keep the "fairytale" element. The seven dwarfs are a highlight of the film, each presenting different personalities. Grumpy, voiced by Martin Klebba, provides comedic relief to the film, with quick witted comments that kept me engaged, and kept the tone of the story upbeat.

The film's message is that being kind will lead you to like-minded people who help bring out the best version of yourself. Snow White constantly puts others before herself and, even through her troubles with the Evil Queen, finds friends that are there for her. With their encouragement, she is able to face her fears and grow into the person she is destined to be.

I give Snow White 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Snow White releases in theaters on March 21, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 17

Brave, Fearless, True, Fair. These words that Snow White lives by are as timeless and important now as they were in 1937 when the original movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, was released. This captivating remake is a blast to watch, and it was so awesome to see Disney bring a nearly 100-year-old classic into a new era, for a new generation to experience.

The story centers around Snow White (Rachel Zegler), the rightful heiress to a kingdom built upon kindness, fairness, and community. Staying true to the original storyline, Snow White tragically loses her parents, and her kingdom falls under the oppressive rule of her jealous stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot). Obsessed with her magic mirror telling her she is "the fairest of them all," the queen's jealousy becomes dangerous, forcing Snow White to escape into the mysterious forest. While she has some scary moments, she encounters many interesting creatures, including the seven dwarfs who take her in.

Just as Snow White wins the hearts of the dwarfs and those she meets along the way, she will win over audiences with her resilience, compassion, and charm. Snow White will be one of my family's favorites for a long time. Disney brought together a fantastic ensemble cast for this movie including Dopey (Andrew Barth Feldman) who is inspired to find his courage by Snow White. Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) thinks everyone only cares about themselves, until Snow White shows him that people can care for each other selflessly. With a pure heart and poignant memories of a better past, Snow White inspires the people of the kingdom to reclaim their strength in the face of the Evil Queen's tyranny. Snow White helps all of these people become better versions of themselves. This movie brings new songs and music by Frank Churchill and to director Marc Webb to bring the amazing dance numbers, beautiful sets, and special effects to life.

The main messages of Snow White are about bravery, kindness, and selflessness. Be aware that there are some mildly scary moments, like when Snow White is first forced to enter the forest.

I give Snow White 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can see Snow White in theaters on March 21.

The short music video features Robert Hicks singing, or sort of rapping a ridiculous song about a moose. That's right, one of those creatures you might find in the inner mountain west or Canada. His tune is accompanied by goofy images and animations that further enhance the giddiness of this short film. My favorite scene is at the end when what appears to be a real moose walks out of a pool. Where did that shot come from. If this doesn't make you laugh, you'd best check your humor level.

The film's message is one of nonsense and silliness.

This has a story inside of a story - one being a mother telling a bedtime story to her son, the other the story of what happened at work and how the mom got to her son's talent show.

The production is pretty good -- good audio, good video, appropriate shots. The cast consists of the mom and her son and the mom's officemates who all have face paint on to identify them as the "squirrels" in the story. It's confusing why the mom, who's also a squirrel, doesn't have the same treatment to her face. The pace is a bit slow at the beginning, but picks up about half way through and the ending is particularly pleasing.

The film's message is about standing up for yourself.

The storyline follows the wacky adventures of Daffy Duck (Eric Bauza) and Porky Pig (Eric Bauza) straight from the mind of producer (Peter Browngardt), who try to stop aliens from taking over the world. Daffy is so silly, unpredictable, and always gets into trouble, while Porky tries to keep things under control, with his nervous but kind-hearted personality.

I absolutely love the animation because it looks just like the classic Looney Tunes cartoons my parents used to show me and it brought back a lot of nostalgia, with a twist of new age technology. Every explosion, chase, and gag is packed with eye-catching colors that keep the energy high and the fun non-stop. Porky and Daffy become world heroes by accident when they get off task and mess around at a bubble gum factory and discover a secret alien plan to control people's minds! A spunky new character joins this crazy duo which makes the perfect Looney Tunes trio, and their adventures are unforgettable and super silly to keep the audience intrigued. See for yourself to find out what the alien leader is really after.

The film carries themes of friendship, teamwork, and embracing individuality as Daffy Duck and Porky Pig face challenges that test their bond and require them to work together to save the world. Their journey underscores the importance of collaboration and accepting each other's quirks to overcome obstacles. Be forewarned there is content with adult humor and some moments that might frighten younger audiences.

I give The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It opens in theaters March 14, 2025.

By Junior Reddick, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I really enjoyed the humorous and sticky adventure of The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie which is the first fully animated feature length film in Looney Tunes history. I was launched into a very gooey and fun adventure.

The storyline is about Daffy Duck and Porky Pig as they work together to fulfill their promise to Father Jim (Fred Tatasciore) to always take care of their home. Due to very looney space activity, this oath is put to an extreme test that not only challenges Daffy and Porky's home but also the planet.

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie stays true to the classic animation of Looney Tunes. The hand drawn cartoons have intricate details that are eye catching and enjoyable to watch. Slapstick humor is definitely at the forefront. Daffy Duck wears his feelings for all to see with everything from bulging heartbeats to a very sensitive exploding head. Unexpected laughable moments occur frequently like when Daffy and Porky desperately try to find a job in a momentary combination of the new and the old. They try to start a rideshare business with a horse and even attempt to become influencers but quickly get cancelled due to inappropriate content. Petunia Pig (Candi Milo) even has a humorous entrance. It is entertaining to watch Porky see her through rose-colored glasses. Petunia's real look versus what Porky really sees demonstrates that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder. Even the Invader (Peter MacNicol) is ridiculous due to being a clumsy alien dictator. His scariness does not last long as he continuously falls and drops items all at the worst moments.

The film's message is that friendship conquers all. Daffy and Porky always stick together, no matter what challenges come their way. They are direct opposites of each other: Daffy is crazy, and Porky is cautious. However, this mismatched pair ends up being exactly what the world needs. You should be aware that the show does have some cartoon violence action and rude, suggestive humor.

I give The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on Friday, March 14, 2025.

The story takes place in a zoo, where Gracie, a wolf (Gabbi Kosmidis) and Dan, a mountain lion (David Harbour) are forced to team up when a meteor turns animals into zombies. They, and the other survivors of the zombie virus, attempt to stop the virus from spreading any further, and save those infected.

The animation in this film is incredible; everything looks so lively and each animal moves exactly like their real-life counterparts. I especially love the way Xiavier, the red ruffed lemur, moves - all his movements are not only extremely smooth but also true to the real animal. I love the visuals throughout this movie and the character designs; the details for small things in the background that represent the zoo are outstanding. However, I am not the biggest fan of Dan's design as it is difficult to tell what animal he is supposed to represent. I also really like following the main character, Gracie. She's such a fun character to watch and Gabbi Kosmidis really brings the character to life through her voice acting. The script is so well done; I love that there's so much thought behind how the zombies work and what they are able of doing. The characters are particularly well scripted; the main characters feel real thanks to their believable actions and the secondary characters are quite funny. The pace of the storyline works well, with the audience discovering information as fast as the characters do. There are a few scenes that feel a little too long, but still, the film is extremely funny and enjoyable to watch. Even though it's geared towards a younger audience, I found myself laughing out loud at times.

The film's message is to be loyal to those that you love and appreciate those around you despite their differences. Be forewarned that there are intense scenes and action sequences, including fake limbs coming off.

I give Night of the Zoopocalype 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters March 7, 2025.

The story follows a character names Snail Spinner who has trouble with his eye and needs to do eye exercises. His friend, Ladybug Dottie lends a hand and the two of them learn the importance of taking care of their eyes.

Cute production. I love the animation - it's clean and clear and clever - the three C's! And the topic, about eye care, is quite appropriate for young kids. I remember having to wear glasses from an early age and an informative film like this would have been terrific. The voiceover artist, actress Anna Guzik-Tylka, voices all three voices - the narrator, Ladybug Dottie and Snail Spinner. She is quite proficient at differentiating the three voices so we can easily figure out which character is speaking. Hats off to Katarzyna Agopsowicz, the film's director; her commitment to creating films for the youngest viewers, especially those with visual impairments.

The film's message is to take care of your eyes; they're the only set you get!

The film is about a curious boy named Sava who moved from Ukraine to Brazil due to the war in his country. Sava lives together with his mother and sister and, despite what he has been through and the effects of moving away from his home, he demonstrates strength and courage. He goes on an adventure full of fun in Brazil. He loves to play with paper airplanes and likes heights and continues to pursue his passion and love for flying.

I like the film's plot and I like seeing how Sava's determination to pursue adventures and his passions and dreams continue to be present in his life. The film is well made with good, clear camera work and audio recording. The scenes in Brazil's jungles are really fascinating. I love the waterfalls! They are extraordinary. I love seeing him ride in the hot air balloon and I love hearing his laughter. My favorite part of the film is seeing Sava having fun as a little boy in Brazil. We are also reminded of his and his family's situation when his sister says that her dream is to return to Ukraine. The song they all sing at the end, presumably in Ukrainian, is a reminder of their love for their country.

The film's message is to always pursue your passions and dreams despite the challenges and obstacles that life brings.

This short film follows two young children, Yun-Yun and Xu-Xu exploring the world around them in the mountains of central Taiwan. We watch them as they help harvest vegetables, sometimes half as big as they are.

This is a lovely multi-cultural short film that shows how families in rural area of Taiwan might live. The camera work is superb, especially the closeups on bugs and insects. The two young children that are our guides here share their experiences in the world around them as they eat fresh vegetables from the garden or fill up their yellow basket until it is overflowing and almost too heavy to for them to carry. The background music is pretty simple and neither adds nor detracts from the film. Although the children speak occasionally, their dialogue is mainly geared to what they are doing and not really instructional. They speak in Chinese which is subtitled in English. My favorite part is when they make a meal, a hot pot, with the help of an adult who is probably their father. They combine the vegetables they have harvested in a pot over a fire outside, then they sit down together and a woman (the mother) joins them.

The film's message is simply about what life is like for a rural Taiwanese family, shown from a child's point of view.

The plot follows Laura (Teo Vergara), a young sloth as she goes through the struggles of her life. Laura feels as though no one, especially her mother, Mama (Olivia Vasquez), takes her seriously. But after a horrible storm her family is forced to move to the city. Laura's idol, Dotty Paste (Leslie Jones) is also in the city, motivating her to want to go. After business at Laura's family's caf� starts booming, Dotty gets jealous. She devises a plan to steal Mama's recipe book. Now, the Romero-Flores' family must try to find a way to get the precious recipe book back!

One aspect I especially like is the animation which is extremely unique and beautiful. I also find the idea of a sloth wanting to go fast humorous. Laura is constantly saying that everyone is too slow for her. This is a bit ironic considering sloths are slow-moving animals. I also enjoyed the complexity of Mama's character. She is portrayed as Laura's main enemy. Laura feels as though her mother is always getting in her way. But it turns out that Mama was exactly like Laura when she was young. Her age is a huge struggle for her, and she keeps forgetting things, but she keeps Lyra close in fear of forgetting Laura too. A Sloth Story explores the rich culture of Spanish culture and is incorporated in the food, language, and clothing in the film. This adds a lot to the movie.

The message of A Sloth Story is about the importance of family. This is shown when Laura sacrifices so much for her family. She is constantly reminded that her family is her ultimate team, which is an important theme to remember.

I give A Sloth Story 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters February 28, 2025.

By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

You may be thinking that this is just another SpongeBob movie, if so, you are sorely mistaken. This is Plankton's (Mr. Lawrence) movie. After 20 years of being pushed around and dismissed, Plankton's wife, Karen (Jill Talley), has had enough. Plankton's epic failures at world domination has Karen fed up. She is ready to remind him that she can be three times as evil and should not be ignored. Their marriage problems swirl into world-wide chaos. Unlikely characters must team up to save Bikini Bottom, the whole world, and a marriage.

This film is engaging with its amazing graphics; I feel like I am in a visual circus. I commend Mr. Lawrence for voice acting Plankton and for writing the story. Mauricio Bartok and Piyush Dhuppe are the animators for this film and they have created a virtual visual playground. This film is like a roller-coaster that took me on an awesome adventure with its many twists and surprises. It still keeps the classic SpongeBob characters such as SpongeBob (Tom Kenny), Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke), and Mr. Krabs (Clancy Brown). This movie is absolutely hilarious. Even though I don't watch SpongeBob a lot, I really enjoyed the comedy and have always been a Plankton fan. I love how Mr. Lawrence has held on to his role as Plankton, going back to when he started in 1999. It's amazing that he has stuck to this role for so long. Everything from the fantastic storyline to the mesmerizing animation make this film a treat to enjoy. There are a couple of heartwarming scenes, but there are also plenty of action scenes that give the movie a thrill. My favorite part is when an implant causes Plankton to have a wild hallucination. That was crazily exciting and fun.

The film's message is that love is all you really need.

I give Plankton The movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Netflix March 7, 2025.

The Shoopie Doopie Show takes children on a fun adventure where they learn about their feelings. Children learn how to identify their everyday emotions and how to find solutions to express them or cope with them.

This is an interesting new show for preschoolers that focuses on emotions. The two main characters, Shoopie and Doopie are large Muppets - bigger than Big Bird - and they serve as role models for the audience. The camera work is quite good and the audio recording is very clear. The one thing that I didn't care for was the squeaky voices of the characters - but that's a personal preference. Also, they add a choir of children's voices but we never see the children; we only hear their voices. I will say that the colors used for backgrounds and props are bright and lively, which is fun. The plot falls a bit short in providing fun details to make sure children are learning and having a good time while being engaged. The plot sticks to mostly identifying emotions by listing them, which isn't particularly dynamic. Shoopie and Doopie's performances are good; however, they seem to be mostly casually speaking and they don't really engage the audience, which I found rather dry. The Shoopie Doopie Show is the first children's short film for Mary Swanhaus, the director and producer. My favorite part is when they start naming the emotions and trying to identify them in the segment called Name It To Tame It. It is good to learn how to identify these emotions and learn how to respond effectively in a good or bad situation.

The film's message is that emotions contribute to a huge factor in our internal self, because it is how we react or respond to situations.

Made by Pixar, Win Or Lose has the same style and quality of all of their great movies. It is a story about a group of kids, all connected by being on a softball team, but all with very different lives. Laurie (Rosanna Jean Foss) just wants to hit the ball and Frank (Josh Thomson) regrets letting go of his girlfriend.

Win Or Lose is the first Pixar original TV show, and it doesn't disappoint. The show's first episode centers around Laurie struggling with self-doubt, which manifests itself as a purple blob that grows in size as her doubt grows. Laurie eventually realizes that she doesn't need to win to have fun. In addition to the great stories, the music at the end of each episode is also super fun. It's interesting to see Pixar mix in a new animation style, kind of like a crayon animation, in Episode 3. Watching these two styles mix in this great new show is a blast. Win Or Lose is very funny, with great timing and one-liners that will make it a family favorite. I love the great idea that each episode centers around a specific member of the team, all on their journey to the championship. The characters are all funny in different ways. My favorite character is Laurie. She has great comedic lines and her motivation to hit the ball to make her father proud makes me root for her throughout the show.

The series' message is that having fun is more important than winning. The show include includes themes of joy and friendship. Parents should note that Win Or Lose includes some fearful moments, like when Laurie gets hit by a softball.

I give Win Or Lose 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The series debuts with its first two episodes on Disney+ on February 19, 2025. The remaining six episodes will be released weekly.

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

Win Or Lose definitely is an unusual and out-of-the-box TV series. With its unique and imaginative perspective, it showcases just how much goes on behind the scenes in what would otherwise be labeled as a simple softball game. From assault armored umpires, to terrible but trying players, there is always more than meets the eye.

Win or Lose is an animated series from Pixar following a co-ed middle school softball team's story as they prepare for the State Softball Championship. But instead of only seeing the week once from the perspective of the main character, each episode shows a face of the story, with different people having center stage. As everyone navigates the numerous challenges of getting ready for the big game, they must work through their own issues before coming together as a strong and united team.

My favorite part is definitely the animation. It is top-notch, blending not only the physical aspects of each individual's life, but also their emotions and what they may imagine. For example, Frank (Josh Thomson) the umpire, is a bit overly cautious of what other people think of him. When some of the spectators disagree with one of his calls, he dons a suit of armor and picks up a shield, saying that his stands with his call. It's quite hilarious to see how their emotions manifest in each situation. The series also does well tying in real world issues that are relatable today, like trying your hardest to succeed only to fail over and over again, or having to take care of an irresponsible parent when you need them most. Once I watched a couple of episodes, I was able to see how the puzzle pieces fit together, and how it makes the story more well-rounded and complete when you see it from all sides. The series' cast includes Will Forte, Ian Chen, Izaac Wang, Jo Firestone, Milan Ray, Josh Thomson and more.

The series' message is that things aren't always what they seem. A simple game of softball may not seem like it has that much going on, but when seen from multiple and very different angles, I found out that everything has another perspective. It only has to be found. Note that this series does contain some profanity, and a scene of stealing (real stealing, not bases in softball).

I give Win Or Lose 4.5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Win or Lose premiers on February 19, 2025.

The storyline is about a highly ranked officer (Peter Hastings) and his dog, who have an unfortunate accident while trying to detain a very evil cat (Pete Davidson) and must be combined into one being. Newly formed Dog Man has to learn how to live a life meant for both humans and animals, while also trying to impress the police chief (Lil Rel Howery). As time goes on, Petey, the evil cat, creates a clone of itself, Lil Petey (Lucas Hopkins Calderon), who ends up playing a crucial part in showing how love is important, no matter who it's for.

The animation in this film immediately stands out - it looks like a 3-D comic book, but moves. These images are created by an entire team of people, including Paul Phippen and Aymeric Arnaud, the lead DMP artists. What makes this animation so amazing is that it includes certain features that would normally be seen in print comic books such as a pencil-like stroke, or words coming out of a person's mouth. These features truly strike the movie as an adaptation of an incredible comic book franchise. Of course, the animation is perfectly paired with the music, which is another thing that is noticeable to the audience. The orchestra, led by Jill Streater, is wonderful at conveying emotional scenes and leads the audience to feel deeply for the characters. The music was created by Tom Howe, and he nailed it. When a scene is sad, the orchestra is quiet and somber; when the characters are happy or excited, the music is upbeat and fast. These carefully thought out music choices make Dog Man all the more better.

The film's message is that no matter how evil one can be, a little bit of love goes a long way. Dog Man is very successful in leading others to be more empathetic to those who might need extra care.

I give Dog Man 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Dog Man can be found in theatres beginning January 31, 2025.

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

I really love the film Dog Man. Not that I'm surprised, I just knew I would. If you, like me, are a fan of the Captain Underpants and Cat Kid comic books, then this is definitely a film you will enjoy as much as I did. It has all the fun and crazy characters of Dav Pilkey's comics brought to animated life.

Dog Man starts with a police dog named Greg and his human partner, Officer Knight (Peter Hastings) who are dedicated to keeping their community safe. All is normal until an accident occurs where the two must go through a wacky surgery, which fuses them together to create the amazing Dog Man! While showing off his classic dog skills, such as playing fetch, Dog Man must also protect the city from Petey the Cat (Pete Davison), who hatches a sneaky cloning scheme. With all the craziness, we meet the lovable and adorable Li'l Petey (Lucas Hopkins Calderon) who forms a surprisingly amazing friendship with Dog Man. Eventually, a new common enemy makes Dog Man and Petey realize they must team up, setting aside their differences to tackle the challenges ahead.

Loving the Dav Pilkey books the way I do, I adore how the art style and the script of this film - they capture the wackiness of the books. I commend the director, Peter Hastings, for his outstanding work and also for Dog Man himself. The film truly is designed in such a way to appeal to the target audience, fans of the original books. It really holds true to the comic book series and its goofy nature. My favorite part is when Li'l Petey is taken hostage by the surprise villain known as Flippy the Fish (Ricky Gervais), which leads to Petey the Cat unlocking his inner good and teaming up with Dog Man. I also like when Petey buys a cloning machine off the internet and has a bunch of silly problems that lead to the creation of Li'l Petey.

The film's message is that everyone has good in them; it just needs the right person, or kitten, to be unlocked. This film contains very slight profanity, but is otherwise okay.

I give Dog Man 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find it in theaters on January 31, 2025.

Eva, a little owl with a big family, lives within the woodland world of Treetopinton. She is lucky enough to live next door to her best friend, Lucy and together they go on adventures, take care of her baby brother, and make notes about all of it in her journal, which encourages young viewers to follow along.

The second season follows Eva, the middle child of the Owl family. Eva is voiced by Viviane Rutherford, a young actress whose voice inflection conveys emotion perfectly. This cheeky Owlet reflects on her days by writing in her diary where she contemplates the importance of friendship, happiness, and sharing feelings with someone or something. One of my favorite things about the second series is that there are tiny projects Eva does that are totally doable with your own family - like making superhero acorns or moon wishes for summer solstice.

The show's message, which comes from the original books, book series, is about how doing good for others makes you happy. There is a lot of focus on helping others, appreciating your family, and being creative with your friends. It inspired me to do those tiny bits of good that make a big difference to someone else. Maybe I will even start to journal!

Eva the Owlet: Season 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 2 to 5 or anyone young at heart. Eva the Owlet: Season 2 premieres on Apple TV January 24, 2025. Until then, catch up on the now available season one.

The story follows Paddington (Ben Whishaw) as he sets off on a thrilling adventure to the jungles of Peru after discovering that his beloved Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton) has gone missing from the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown family by his side, Paddington embarks on a journey through the Amazon rainforest, uncovering hidden secrets and stumbling upon a legendary treasure along the way.

As the Paddington and his entourage navigate the lush landscapes and face unexpected challenges, Paddington's signature kindness and optimism shine through. Ben Whishaw once again brings Paddington to life with his endearing voice performance, capturing the bear's innocence and unwavering spirit. The Brown family, portrayed by Hugh Bonneville, Samuel Joslin, Emily Mortimer, and Madeleine Harris and the rest of the talented cast add warmth and humor to the story. The breathtaking cinematography showcases the vibrant and lush beauty of Peru, making the film visually captivating. The use of practical effects and CGI seamlessly blend to create a world that feels both whimsical and immersive. My favorite part of the film is Paddington's heartfelt reunion with Aunt Lucy. The emotional depth in this moment is beautifully handled, reinforcing the film's central themes of love and family. The adventure sequences, infused with humor and thrilling moments, kept me engaged, while the touching relationships make the story deeply resonant.

At its core, Paddington in Peru carries a powerful message about perseverance, kindness, and the importance of family--both the ones we are born into and the ones we choose. The film encourages viewers to embrace curiosity and compassion, making it a positive and uplifting experience for all ages. There is no inappropriate language or concerning behavior, making it a perfect choice for young audiences.

The story follows a little cloud named Cloudy who helps her best friend Kite get loose from a tree, after having been blown into it by a gust of wind. Cloudy exercises good problem solving in helping get Kite. And Wind comes along at the right time to help out; sharing some useful lessons about various things that wind is capable of doing. The key characters are Cloudy the cloud, Kite the kite and Wind. The voice actors are a delight. Gracia Damsgard voices Cloudy; Cody D. Smith voices Kite and Amy Weyerhauser voices Mountain. The voice actor for Wind is uncredited. I love the look of the animation; it's clean and uncluttered, brightly colored and age appropriate. The background music and sound effects are spot on. I would love to see this develop as a series because the characters are so charming.

The film's creator, Nick Jennings, has an impressive background having worked on a variety of shows for Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network including SpongeBob SquarePants, and winning an Annie award, two Emmy's, a BAFTA, a Telly and a Peabody award. Known for transforming animation into the digital age, we benefit from his production in this sweet short film.

The film's message reminds us how important our friends are and, to always keep our sense of humor as it tosses in a few puns for good measure.

The storyline follows the tiniest elephant ever born in the jungle as it overcomes challenges and uses his small size to save his elephant herd.

This 2D animated film is sweet and simple. I especially enjoyed the music and the voice talent by Joann Zorian as Toomba Boo. I really enjoyed the animation, especially the jungle scenes at the beginning. It's bright and colorful and well executed. The music and songs by Robert Jason and Tom Bevins are my favorite part of this film. The songs are a big part of the story. The credits do not indicate exactly who the actors, the animation or the production team are, which is unfortunate. The music is credited as are the directors, Layne Laughter and Tom Bevins. Bevins is also the writer. My favorite part is the song "If You Listen," sung by Tooma's mom when he is trying to grow bigger inside his DIY cocoon. Her conversation with him prior to this song is sweet and reminds him how special he is because he's different.

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

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

The storylines starts with a girl and her stuffed tiger. Then we see a girl who is like a mime acting like a tiger. Next, two boys dressed like tigers are at the zoo. They all sing a song about a tiger and a mouse.

The story flows really well and makes sense. The lion and the mouse develop because the lion is scared of the mouse because it looks so big but the mouse comes out of the dark and looks normal again and the tiger is no longer afraid. The story really drew me in, especially when the tiger runs away from the mouse. The images are very clear and easy to identify. The visuals are really kid-friendly and bright. It is a live action film with some animation. For example, when it has clay animals. The visuals are really kid friendly and bright. It invites the viewer to problem solve when they are trying to figure out what is chasing the lion. It gives us insight into Chinese culture.

The film's message is that things may not be what they seem. The dialogue is in Chinese with English subtitles which are really easy to read.

This feature film, directed by Jo�o G. Amorim, highlights the vast and diverse wildlife and plant life found in three of Brazil's seven biomes: the Brazilian Savannah, Pantanal, and the Atlantic Forest. It does so through the main characters, a family--Jacob, the father, and the two siblings, Isa, and Jake. It is a multimedia film that is family-friendly and contains educational content that discusses various endangered animals and the organizations helping to protect them in Brazil. The film has various forms of multimedia, including puppetry and animation.

This film is very child-friendly for various reasons such as seeing the animated animals sing about the biomes and the animals that inhabit them. Secondly, it includes many fun facts about these animals, including characteristics, scientific names, feeding habits, plus we learn other additional things about the organizations that protect the animals and maintain their habitats. This is a film that educates viewers about Brazilian wildlife and its habits. For each biome, the main characters face a challenge or enter a situation that ends with visiting the biome and learning about it. While the original language of the film is in Portuguese, the English subtitles make it easy to follow. The subtitles are appropriate and can be easily understood by the average child. The songs in the film, which, although sung in Portuguese, can still be sung along to, and thanks to the English subtitles, are easy to understand. The film is visually appealing to children and is a mix of animation, live-action, and puppetry. The main characters, Isa, Jake, and Jacob, are puppets, and the animals turn into puppets when they talk to them. In the musical scenes, the characters are animated, which is aesthetically pleasing and encourages children's engagement. The animation is good, though the constant shift from puppets to animals in the film can be a bit jarring and may cause one to question whether they are looking at an animal or a puppet.

The benefits of this program are its educational value and content. It encourages viewers to learn more about Brazilian wildlife and plants and the organizations protecting them, and also to perhaps look for and research the wildlife in their local areas. An example of an issue affecting Brazilian wildlife that is discussed in the film is how the cane toads and other animals in the Atlantic forest are having difficulties surviving due to the forest being turned into land for cattle grazing.

The main message of the program is that local wildlife is important and should be protected and preserved to ensure that both endangered and rare animals continue to exist in the future.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The music is quite lovely as well.

There are lots of simple lessons to enjoy here, starting with the scavenger hunt to find 5 red objects to the word game, focused on spelling words that start with the letter "p." There's a sweet and simple drawing lesson, showing us how to draw a penguin.

The show's message is simply focused on teaching little ones about the world around them, in an entertaining way.

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

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

The film's message is about believing in yourself.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boonie Cubs is a TV series about two bear cub brothers, Briar (Nichalia Schwartz) and Bramble (Joseph S. Lambert), who live in the forest and have all kinds of expeditions with their friends Vick, Babu, Tiki, Coach Mack, and several others. Together, Briar and Bramble are hilarious! Briar is the smarter, adventurous, and more responsible brother, while Bramble relies on his brother for help, and is more laid-back and loves to eat. The forest friends all attend Pine Tree Kindergarten and the wise owl, Miss Olivia teaches them math. They also learn valuable lessons along the way while having fun in the forest.

There are four seasons of Boonie Cubs. Each episode is around 25 minutes long, so it can easily hold the attention of younger audiences. The animation is vibrant and detailed, creating a work that feels alive and magical. The forest isn't just the backdrop for the show; it feels like its own character, full of surprises and beauty. Even the bark on the trees has such a strong texture. The detail in the character's faces really gives them each their own special personality. My personal favorite character is the squirrel, Warren, with his emerald green bright eyes. Boonie Cubs provides interesting facts about animals and nature. My favorite fun fact is how fireflies glow. Did you know they need oxygen to light their light? The more oxygen they have, the brighter their light is. I commend the director, Leon Ding, for balancing humor, adventure, and heartfelt lessons in this show, creating a series that entertains while teaching kids about teamwork, kindness, and protecting the environment.

What stands out most about Boonie Cubs is how it combines humor, adventure, and meaningful life lessons all in one series. Together the friends at Pine Tree Kindergarten learn about emotions, nature, courage, friendship, and other important social skills. The dynamic between the characters also sets the series apart. The sibling relationship between Briar and Bramble is relatable for kids with brothers or sisters. They argue and tease each other, but they always come through for one another when it matters most.

I give Boonie Cubs 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. Boonie Cubs is available now on Peacock and other streaming outlets! Go check it out.

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

Boonie Cubs is a bear-y cute film for younger audiences! It has fun animation, an enjoyable storyline, and adorable characters. Viewers will definitely be tuned in while watching and get to learn important lessons at a young age.

Boonie Cubs is a show for elementary schoolers that follows Briar (Nichalia Schwartz) and Bramble (Siobhan Lumsden) on their journeys throughout their forest along with their friends such as Vick. They all go on small adventures and learn lessons along the way. In Season 1, Episode 1, Briar steals Vick's ax which causes a small feud between the two as Vick tries to get it back. After a while, Briar is then taught the lesson of not taking things from others. Later on in the episode, Briar doesn't have anyone to play a game with because everyone else wants to play with Vick's car. But then Briar is again advised and told to maybe join them! It's a cute episode of life lessons and handling situations.

The main characters are Briar and Brimble as well as Vick, Miss Olivia (Nichalia Schwartz), and the other forest friends! I think that this is such an interesting series considering it's a Chinese animated series that is dubbed in English for a US audience. While you can tell that it was originally recorded in a different language, the voice actors' performances are very good and succeed in making the show appealing. I'm not the audience for this show; it is definitely a show for younger viewers because of how the story develops. It's not too much of an entertainment show, as it's honestly made to inform little kids of situations and the life lessons to be learned from them. But of course, it will keep little kids entertained and watching.

There are many messages to get from this show. Season 1, Episode 1 in particular focuses on lessons such as not taking what's not yours without permission, going in with others instead of pulling them away, and even stepping out of your comfort zone. This is definitely a cute show for parents to put on when they want some free time from their little ones.

I rate Boonie Cubs 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 2 to 8. You can stream Boonie Bears on Peacock now!

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

The animated series, Boonie Cubs is fun, full of great lessons, and is very pleasing to watch. I really like it and can't wait to see more episodes.

The show's first episode is divided into two fun stories. The first story introduces us to a boy named Vick who chases a thieving bear, Briar, through the forest. Briar has stolen Vick's ax and he wants it back. Vick finds himself in Briar's world, which is a magical forest with talking animals. After getting his ax back, Vick and his new friends play together and learn lessons. The second story focuses on Bramble bear who is starting his first day of kindergarten and is very scared. His teacher and his new friends include him in fun and games, and soon Bramble is at ease.

Vick and all of the animals, including four bears, two monkeys, a squirrel, a badger, a mole and an owl, are incredibly voiced by just four actors - Siobhan Lumsden, Joseph S. Lambert, Gene Hobes and Nichalia Schwartz - who uniquely bring each character to life. The graphics are so vibrant - it looks as though they are high definition photos that are turned into animation. The snow-capped mountains and the moss growing on the sides of the trees are very realistic, so are the leaves and grass which sway as if they are real. My favorite part of the first story is when Vick meets Ms. Owl. He is afraid of her but after she comforts him with a sweet song, he knows that she is a friend. In the second story, I really like that the classmates include Bramble in their games and it makes him less fearful.

The show has many lessons including: be willing to make new friends and have new experiences; stealing is wrong; it's good to compromise; try to be brave.

I give Boonie Cubs 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8. You can watch it on Peacock and other streaming outlets now.