Watch Kids' Reviews of
TEI TEI

What an interesting plot! I love the idea of a soul mate who is trapped in a different place and time. It adds both the conflict and the fascinating sci-fi theme. This film is about a boy seeking his Tei or soul mate. The only problem is that his Tei lives in another place in time. Despite the distance, they share a love of space and science. What I like about the storyline is that it features two completely different locations and eras, as well as some thought provoking scientific ideas and history. The bunny shots are a unique and interesting way to transition between scenes. Also, the director use photography to differentiate the time eras. The current time scenes are in color and the scenes from the past are in black and white. I love how specific the costumes are to the time periods. I especially love the little girl's dress. The sets and locations are very simple, but reflect the time periods well.

I love the vintage Russian space program footage. It lends an historical authenticity to the film. It is great that the Russian girl speaks Russian. One of the things I really like about the film is that it was written by someone so young. The goal of this film is to inspire and it certainly does so. The message is: if you are a dreamer, always stay true to yourself, and you will somehow find your Tei.

This film made me want to learn where the word Tei comes from. It also made me curious about Russian space travel and time travel. I especially love when the boy is travelling through time. I give this 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to18, plus adults. Reviewed by Elle C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

I am such a fan of student films, especially those that show true insight and thoughtfulness, like this one does. 13-year-old Mark Leschinsky is to be commended for creating an interesting story line and executing it in a remarkably good production. Yes, there are some continuity issues such as there was no priority mail in 1963 and the types of devices plugged into the electric outlet at the girl's home didn't exist at that time. But, that's something for studios to worry about. What I love is the storyline, the acting which is pretty believable, the use of black and white for the 1963 scenes and I love Mark's personal statement at the end. Kudos to you my friend. Definitely give this 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. Reviewed by Julie S. KIDS FIRST! Juror.

A heartwarming story about an unusual friendship of two children living in different countries in different time periods. An 11-year-old boy named Johnny, a talented young chess player has found his best friend Dashenka, a 10-year-old Russian girl living with her pet rabbit in 1963. Both children are dreaming about flying to space. Johnny wants to go back in time to meet Dashenka.