Watch Kids' Reviews of
LOST & FOUND

With beautiful filming locations and promising filmmakers, this Indie film is wonderfully entertaining. The story is about teenage brothers (Benjamin Stockham & Justin Kelly) who embark on a treasure hunt to restore their family's lost fortune. The directors and producers noble attempt at making a fun family treasure hunt film are evident in the production aspect. Joseph Itaya, who has been a part of incredible short films in the past like Monsoon, sits in the directing chair of his first feature and manages to make the look of the film riveting. Delightful use of lighting and outdoor sites invite people right into the adventure. However, looks can only go so far and where this film falls a bit short is in the screenplay. Some lines are droll and there is an unnecessary plot twist. Even with its minor bumps, if you're looking for a campy mystery, Lost and Found will provide enough entertainment for movie night with the family. I recommend it for ages 8 to 18 and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewed by Keefer B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I enjoyed watching Lost & Found. It has elements of mystery, combined with compassion and underlying evil. It has Star Power. Lost & Found opens with Andy Walton (Justin Kelly) competing in a swim meet. Winning the meet can mean a scholarship for college. Andy, an excellent swimmer mentions that he can hold his breath for 90 seconds. Andy does not win and the disappointment sends his life in a different direction.

After breaking the law, he is sent to spend the summer with an unknown uncle. Uncle Trent (Jason Patrick) lives on the remote island, once owned by his grandfather. He and his younger brother Mark (Benjamin Stockham) learn that their eccentric grandfather once owned the island, but vanished without a trace, taking with him the secret to a huge fortune.

The boys discover a challenging treasure hunt and follow the clues with hope of finding the treasure in time to save and heal their broken family. Along the way, they face many obstacles. Andy is not happy about having his younger brother Mark tag along, but later realizes and comes to appreciate Mark's loyalty and knowledge. I liked one scene in which Mark is lying in bed with his life jacket on and Andy asks him why? He replies to Andy because "Mom" told me to keep it on" and besides it is cozy.

There is a small side story about young love between Andy and Claire Broman (Celeste Desjardins). Claire is the daughter of John Broman (Cary Elwes), who is seeking the Walton fortune and wants to change the island.

Since Lost & Found takes place on a remote costal island, it has a cloudy, mysterious feel. It is filmed partly along the coast of Washington state and Canada. It has good production values and would work well on the big screen. It is very watchable and I plan to watch it again. It has several lessons appropriate for the entire family. The main lesson is voiced in a statement "what we do in the dark will come out in the light." Keeping secrets from family members can lead to discord, anger and pain. I recommend this film for ages 8 to 18 and adults will enjoy it also. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. This is an independent production with big production values so, look for it at your local Film Festival or on DVD. Discover the results of Andy and Mark's treasure hunt! Reviewed by Juanita L., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

Sent to spend the summer with their uncle on a remote island, young brothers Andy and Mark learn that their eccentric grandfather once owned the island, but vanished without a trace...taking with him the secret to a vast fortune. Delving into the mysterious past, the brothers discover that their grandfather designed a complex treasure hunt, a hunt that could lead to unimaginable wealth and heal their broken family - if they can find it in time. Sinister forces also search for the money and will stop at nothing to keep the boys from their quest. As the adventure unfolds, the boys learn that the bonds of family are the most valuable riches of all, and that some family secrets can't stay buried forever.