Description - Manish, a 6-year-old boy struggles to adapt to his mother's absence from his life. His mother has been dead for weeks and the family can't gather the courage to explain the real meaning of death to the little kid. Manish, however, is a strong-willed boy who believes his mother will return if he sets out to correct all the past mischiefs he has committed. He can't open up to his father Siddharth, who is unaware of Manish's endeavors and is grieving over the demise of his wife. Manish pins all his hopes on a secret magic trick - that he has learnt from his friend. With both father and son struggling with their respective loss, the only way the family can come together again is if the magic trick works. But, will it?
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Knot is a beautiful short film capturing the magic of childhood and exploring the ideas of hope, grief, family and reconciliation with reality. The actors' performances and the background music are particularly outstanding.The storyline follows six-year-old Manish (Saarthak Arya), who is struggling to understand his mother's sudden death. Manish's family is too grief-stricken to discuss it with him, and he is left wondering when God will send her back. One day, Manish's friend Sunny (Tanish Moudgill) reveals that he can talk directly to God using a magic trick, giving Manish new hope that he can reunite his family.
The plot somewhat perplexed me. The first half of the film seems to be building to an emotional climax, but at the end of the film when Manish's balloon message fails, he doesn't even bat an eye. Manish's bond with his father (Ajeet Singh Palawat) strengthens suddenly and significantly at the end of the film, but we never see them discuss or mourn the loss of Manish's mother. To the viewer, it seems as though Manish simply steps into his new life without grieving or reflecting on the relationship that was supposed to be so strong. The film concludes on a high note, almost seeming to dismiss the life Manish once lived. I was deeply moved by Saarthak Arya's portrayal of Manish. At such a young age, he already demonstrates a keen understanding of complex emotions. He is able to act hopeful yet disappointed; innocent with a layer of wisdom and curiosity. He portrays longing for his mother without acting completely depressed or withdrawn, revealing that he is still holding out hope for her return. Manish represents the clash between the magic of imagination and harsh realities, and Arya executes both seamlessly. The camera work is clear, but there are no specific contributions worth mentioning. The background music is definitely worth mentioning. Quirky and up-tempo notes balance out heavier moments, such as Manish's balloon release, and ensure that the film does not depress its viewers. The film displays all aspects of grief and loss, not just the lowest points, and the music keeps it well-rounded. Abhay Praveen Gupta makes very impactful decisions as director, such as leaning into the symbolism of the balloon that Manish releases to contact God. The balloon itself represents childhood and innocence, and Manish finally letting it go up into the sky represents him accepting his new reality and embracing new hopes. My favorite part of the film is that it made me believe in magic once again, because as a viewer, I got to see the world from the eyes of a six-year-old boy. The film reassures viewers that just maybe, death isn't the end. It doesn't have to be something we deny or push away -- at least, in Manish's eyes, it is simply a transition to another world. It's a journey we are all inevitably going to take one day, so we might as well hope that there is more to be discovered. This is a greatly healing film that can restore grieving viewers' faith and guide them back to the sense of belief that life may have clouded.
The film's message is that some dreams are meant to be held onto, and others released. It is not an easy lesson to learn, especially as a child, but it is freeing once you let go of the past and choose to welcome the future and everything it may bring. The film is in Hindi (with English subtitles) and qualifies as multicultural.
I give Knot 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Knot is a beautiful short film capturing the magic of childhood and exploring the ideas of hope, grief, family and reconciliation with reality. The actors' performances and the background music are particularly outstanding.
The storyline follows six-year-old Manish (Saarthak Arya), who is struggling to understand his mother's sudden death. Manish's family is too grief-stricken to discuss it with him, and he is left wondering when God will send her back. One day, Manish's friend Sunny (Tanish Moudgill) reveals that he can talk directly to God using a magic trick, giving Manish new hope that he can reunite his family.
The plot somewhat perplexed me. The first half of the film seems to be building to an emotional climax, but at the end of the film when Manish's balloon message fails, he doesn't even bat an eye. Manish's bond with his father (Ajeet Singh Palawat) strengthens suddenly and significantly at the end of the film, but we never see them discuss or mourn the loss of Manish's mother. To the viewer, it seems as though Manish simply steps into his new life without grieving or reflecting on the relationship that was supposed to be so strong. The film concludes on a high note, almost seeming to dismiss the life Manish once lived. I was deeply moved by Saarthak Arya's portrayal of Manish. At such a young age, he already demonstrates a keen understanding of complex emotions. He is able to act hopeful yet disappointed; innocent with a layer of wisdom and curiosity. He portrays longing for his mother without acting completely depressed or withdrawn, revealing that he is still holding out hope for her return. Manish represents the clash between the magic of imagination and harsh realities, and Arya executes both seamlessly. The camera work is clear, but there are no specific contributions worth mentioning. The background music is definitely worth mentioning. Quirky and up-tempo notes balance out heavier moments, such as Manish's balloon release, and ensure that the film does not depress its viewers. The film displays all aspects of grief and loss, not just the lowest points, and the music keeps it well-rounded. Abhay Praveen Gupta makes very impactful decisions as director, such as leaning into the symbolism of the balloon that Manish releases to contact God. The balloon itself represents childhood and innocence, and Manish finally letting it go up into the sky represents him accepting his new reality and embracing new hopes. My favorite part of the film is that it made me believe in magic once again, because as a viewer, I got to see the world from the eyes of a six-year-old boy. The film reassures viewers that just maybe, death isn't the end. It doesn't have to be something we deny or push away -- at least, in Manish's eyes, it is simply a transition to another world. It's a journey we are all inevitably going to take one day, so we might as well hope that there is more to be discovered. This is a greatly healing film that can restore grieving viewers' faith and guide them back to the sense of belief that life may have clouded.
The film's message is that some dreams are meant to be held onto, and others released. It is not an easy lesson to learn, especially as a child, but it is freeing once you let go of the past and choose to welcome the future and everything it may bring. The film is in Hindi (with English subtitles) and qualifies as multicultural.
I give Knot 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12.
Runtime: 13 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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I AM ENOUGH - CAROL WILSON
Series: FOREIGN SHORT, AGES 12-18
Description - A group of young adults navigate the overwhelming challenges of their mental health, each burdened by feelings of inadequacy. Struggling with bipolar disorder, self-harm, eating disorders, and other hidden battles, they wrestle with the fear that they'll never be enough. As their paths cross, their shared struggles become a quiet bond, but the weight of their individual pain threatens to isolate them. Through creative expression, the group begins to rediscover their voices, their strength, and the truth that they are more than their struggles. I Am Enough is a heartfelt story about mental health, self-care, and the importance of compassion - reminding us all that healing starts when we believe in our worth and treat others with kindness.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I Am Enough will truly stick with me. The music is catchy and the acting is terrific. The storyline follows a group of young adults who believe they are never enough; they feel isolated and it seems that nothing in their lives will get better. Their mentor helps them learn to express how they feel and the struggles they have through writing and singing, helping to reinforce their self-worth.The plot develops very organically. One of the important scenes is when we learn that one of the main characters has an eating disorder. All the characters write down their problems, revealing both their past and present situation. This gives us insight into each individual. Another critical scene is when one person reveals that why she never goes out is because of her mother and we see how everyone has a bad situation to deal with. I really like how this is revealed because the audience hears it at the same time the other kids hear it. The big turning point is when Steph gets them to sing about how they are enough. This gives the kids hope. The final scene shows Harry, Porsha and another kid having a heartfelt conversation and realize that, even though their problems might not be solved, they can get through them together. The script is extremely well written, and the acting is even better. One of the main characters, Jen (Lauren J. Irwin), is the group's mentor and has had her own issues in the past. Irwin's character seems to have an entire story outside of this film. Another character, Paige (Symphony Gibbons), suffers from an eating disorder, and is unable to stop despite wanting to. Gibbons' performance really brings Paige to life. Harry (Frank Emsley) is a kid who deals with self-harm. The amount of emotion he shows and brings to the character made me so empathetic for him. Ryan and Sophie (Jake Kemp, Nessa Eriksson) show how assumptions can lead to people's downfalls. Ryan is assumed to be a drug dealer by everyone, and Sophie, his girlfriend, is assumed to be forcing them to be with their mentor. They are the least developed and I didn't relate to them very well. However, Jake Kemp and Nessa Eriksson both made their characters extremely believable. The camera work is very good; one shot that really stuck with me is the shot over the ocean - it is extremely beautiful despite a sad story being told. I also like the close-ups of the kids when they are writing, and the cutaways that show their problems. The song at the end of the movie, written by Jen, is spot on and makes a perfect ending. It emphasizes how they are not struggling alone and that there are people out there to remind them that they are enough. The ending scene is my favorite part. It is beautifully shot, and shows the uncertainty of having to be in a situation you can't control.
The film's message is to never blame yourself for your situation, and to know that there are others around to help you if you need it. Be aware that it does contain some acts of violence. There is a scene of self-harm and a mention of drugs.
I give I Am Enough 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I Am Enough will truly stick with me. The music is catchy and the acting is terrific. The storyline follows a group of young adults who believe they are never enough; they feel isolated and it seems that nothing in their lives will get better. Their mentor helps them learn to express how they feel and the struggles they have through writing and singing, helping to reinforce their self-worth.
The plot develops very organically. One of the important scenes is when we learn that one of the main characters has an eating disorder. All the characters write down their problems, revealing both their past and present situation. This gives us insight into each individual. Another critical scene is when one person reveals that why she never goes out is because of her mother and we see how everyone has a bad situation to deal with. I really like how this is revealed because the audience hears it at the same time the other kids hear it. The big turning point is when Steph gets them to sing about how they are enough. This gives the kids hope. The final scene shows Harry, Porsha and another kid having a heartfelt conversation and realize that, even though their problems might not be solved, they can get through them together. The script is extremely well written, and the acting is even better. One of the main characters, Jen (Lauren J. Irwin), is the group's mentor and has had her own issues in the past. Irwin's character seems to have an entire story outside of this film. Another character, Paige (Symphony Gibbons), suffers from an eating disorder, and is unable to stop despite wanting to. Gibbons' performance really brings Paige to life. Harry (Frank Emsley) is a kid who deals with self-harm. The amount of emotion he shows and brings to the character made me so empathetic for him. Ryan and Sophie (Jake Kemp, Nessa Eriksson) show how assumptions can lead to people's downfalls. Ryan is assumed to be a drug dealer by everyone, and Sophie, his girlfriend, is assumed to be forcing them to be with their mentor. They are the least developed and I didn't relate to them very well. However, Jake Kemp and Nessa Eriksson both made their characters extremely believable. The camera work is very good; one shot that really stuck with me is the shot over the ocean - it is extremely beautiful despite a sad story being told. I also like the close-ups of the kids when they are writing, and the cutaways that show their problems. The song at the end of the movie, written by Jen, is spot on and makes a perfect ending. It emphasizes how they are not struggling alone and that there are people out there to remind them that they are enough. The ending scene is my favorite part. It is beautifully shot, and shows the uncertainty of having to be in a situation you can't control.
The film's message is to never blame yourself for your situation, and to know that there are others around to help you if you need it. Be aware that it does contain some acts of violence. There is a scene of self-harm and a mention of drugs.
I give I Am Enough 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 20 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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OLIVIA AND THE KINGDOM OF WINGED THINGS - SHERVONNE TAYLOR
Series: INDIE SHORT, AGES 5-12
Description - "Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things" is a short film about a shy, imaginative little girl named Olivia Catherine Amanda Mae Brown (named after just about every woman in her family) who more than anything wants to be a butterfly in her school play, 'The Backyard Ballet.' Olivia's classmates tease and bully her into believing she's too big to dance. After spending time with her grandmother, she enters a magical dream later that night, where she learns to start believing in herself instead of listening to the taunting words of others. But just as Olivia finds her own unique wings, she discovers that this is just the beginning of her journey. What will she do? And who will she believe? "Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things" is an uplifting story about overcoming fear, family secrets and the power of kindness.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I love this film! So empowering and cheerful. Just what young people need today.The animated short follows a young girl whose confidence is tested after being bullied by other girls in her class. After a visit with her grandmother, she has a dream that empowers her to believe in herself and scores the role in her school play she was hoping to get. The end is a bit odd, as she gets a call telling her that her mom is in the hospital. I guess this is the lead in to the next story but it feels odd since we weren't aware of that until we saw the ending.
I love the 2D animation. It's bright and colorful and perfect for the target audience. The bullying is typical of what kids are dealing with today and the way it's handled, with help from the girl's grandmother and her dream, are perfect. The narrator's voice is strong and adds a lot to the story; the voice actors that play the girl, the grandmother and the butterflies are also appropriate. The plot develops well, with the exception of the threatening call at the end, which threw me for a loop. As formerly mentioned, it seems to be the lead in to a subsequent story, but we had no indication that this was part of a series.
The film's message is about believing in yourself.
I give Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love this film! So empowering and cheerful. Just what young people need today.
The animated short follows a young girl whose confidence is tested after being bullied by other girls in her class. After a visit with her grandmother, she has a dream that empowers her to believe in herself and scores the role in her school play she was hoping to get. The end is a bit odd, as she gets a call telling her that her mom is in the hospital. I guess this is the lead in to the next story but it feels odd since we weren't aware of that until we saw the ending.
I love the 2D animation. It's bright and colorful and perfect for the target audience. The bullying is typical of what kids are dealing with today and the way it's handled, with help from the girl's grandmother and her dream, are perfect. The narrator's voice is strong and adds a lot to the story; the voice actors that play the girl, the grandmother and the butterflies are also appropriate. The plot develops well, with the exception of the threatening call at the end, which threw me for a loop. As formerly mentioned, it seems to be the lead in to a subsequent story, but we had no indication that this was part of a series.
The film's message is about believing in yourself.
I give Olivia and the Kingdom of Winged Things 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 6 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO
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AM I STILL BEAUTIFUL? - TARA ZULFIKAR
Series: COLLEGE STUDENT SHORT, AGES 8-18
Description - Fourteen-year-old Malaya is the quintessential tomboy who loves baggy pants and hanging out with boys. However, her world of familial expectation and rough friendships collide on the day of her birthday party, when she is forced to prove her masculinity once and for all in order to defend her best friend and secret crush, Ali.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I really enjoyed watching Am I Still Beautiful! It is a fun, lighthearted movie with a good theme that is relatable to most teens. Along with that, there are gorgeous sets, music, and lighting that really make the whole movie feel immersive.The plot follows Malalia (Sofia Inez Garcia), as she hosts her birthday party. She clearly struggles with self love and her self image. We meet Ali, the boy she is fond of, who only thinks of her as a friend (or a brother). Malalia is desperate to gain the love and approval of Ali and the other boys she invited to her party. She succumbs to peer pressure, and is forced into an uncomfortable situation. Luckily, Malalia's mother (Paula Sim) reminds her of an important lesson.
I like the plot of this film - it shows Malalia's longing to fit in and meet the standards of her friends. The theme isn't forced and is well developed throughout the film. Additionally, I enjoy Malalia's relationship with her mother. There is wonderful acting that depicts the trust and love between the two, which is refreshing to see. I think that the conflict with Malalia's friends could have been made a bit more clear. The movie spends very little time showing Malalia's relationship with her friends and we don't quite see how much Malalia wants their approval and acceptance. I am impressed with the performance of Sofia Inez Garcia's portrayal of Malalia. Malalia is a complex character - she tries to like herself, but cares a lot about the opinion of others. Garcia's facial expressions and tone clearly demonstrate how her character feels. I also admire Paula Sim's portrayal of her mom. We see how terrific her relationship is with her daughter. The camera work is clear and fitting for every scene. My favorite shot is the final scene where Malalia and her mom are hugging. This really highlights a powerful moment in the film and depicts how strong Malalia and her mother's relationship is. The sets are very homey and warm. I especially love Malalia's room. It is painted a gorgeous blue with stars and posters and really feels like Malalia's safe place. The background music is lively and is worth noting. It adds to the warm atmosphere. At one point, when Malalia and her mother have a heart to heart, and then lay on the carpet, hugging, the music enhances the power of this moment. The casting director, Marg Zhang, deserves praise. The cast beautifully showcases the story. My favorite character is the mom - she delivers the valuable theme of self love, is very supportive of Malalia, and has positive energy that is a joy to watch. My favorite scene is when Malalia asks, "Am I still beautiful?" and the mom responds, "Stunning."
The film's message is that it is more important to love yourself than search for the approval of others.
I give Am I Still Beautiful! 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I really enjoyed watching Am I Still Beautiful! It is a fun, lighthearted movie with a good theme that is relatable to most teens. Along with that, there are gorgeous sets, music, and lighting that really make the whole movie feel immersive.
The plot follows Malalia (Sofia Inez Garcia), as she hosts her birthday party. She clearly struggles with self love and her self image. We meet Ali, the boy she is fond of, who only thinks of her as a friend (or a brother). Malalia is desperate to gain the love and approval of Ali and the other boys she invited to her party. She succumbs to peer pressure, and is forced into an uncomfortable situation. Luckily, Malalia's mother (Paula Sim) reminds her of an important lesson.
I like the plot of this film - it shows Malalia's longing to fit in and meet the standards of her friends. The theme isn't forced and is well developed throughout the film. Additionally, I enjoy Malalia's relationship with her mother. There is wonderful acting that depicts the trust and love between the two, which is refreshing to see. I think that the conflict with Malalia's friends could have been made a bit more clear. The movie spends very little time showing Malalia's relationship with her friends and we don't quite see how much Malalia wants their approval and acceptance. I am impressed with the performance of Sofia Inez Garcia's portrayal of Malalia. Malalia is a complex character - she tries to like herself, but cares a lot about the opinion of others. Garcia's facial expressions and tone clearly demonstrate how her character feels. I also admire Paula Sim's portrayal of her mom. We see how terrific her relationship is with her daughter. The camera work is clear and fitting for every scene. My favorite shot is the final scene where Malalia and her mom are hugging. This really highlights a powerful moment in the film and depicts how strong Malalia and her mother's relationship is. The sets are very homey and warm. I especially love Malalia's room. It is painted a gorgeous blue with stars and posters and really feels like Malalia's safe place. The background music is lively and is worth noting. It adds to the warm atmosphere. At one point, when Malalia and her mother have a heart to heart, and then lay on the carpet, hugging, the music enhances the power of this moment. The casting director, Marg Zhang, deserves praise. The cast beautifully showcases the story. My favorite character is the mom - she delivers the valuable theme of self love, is very supportive of Malalia, and has positive energy that is a joy to watch. My favorite scene is when Malalia asks, "Am I still beautiful?" and the mom responds, "Stunning."
The film's message is that it is more important to love yourself than search for the approval of others.
I give Am I Still Beautiful! 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST!
Runtime: 8 minutes
Juror Recommended Age: 8-18
Suggested Retail Price: $
Media: VIDEO