KIDS FIRST! Jury Blog

A chronicle about how the Lakota Indians fight to reclaim control of the Black Hills. Will investigate how the sacred land was stolen in violation of treaty agreements and feature interviews with Indigenous citizens.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Lakota Nation vs. United States educates and entertains with hard-hitting interviews and lyrical narration. It’s an incredible watch for history buffs, especially those looking to learn more about a significant moment in US history.” See his full review below.

Lakota Nation Vs. United States
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Lakota Nation vs. United States educates and entertains with hard-hitting interviews and lyrical narration. It’s an incredible watch for history buffs, especially those looking to learn more about a significant moment in US history.

A chronicle of the Lakota people and their homeland of the Black Hills, Lakota Nation vs. United States traces the journey of a marginalized people. It starts with the Indian Wars of the 1800s, describes how sacred land was stolen in violation of treaty agreements. It progresses through the centuries all the way to today, as people protest a most ironic shrine to white supremacy, Mount Rushmore, and continue to call for the recognition of their tribal rights.

The film is unique for a variety of reasons. First, it’s co-directed by Jesse Short Bull — an Oglala Lakota man — and Laura Tomaselli, one of the few times in mass media we see Native Americans telling their stories. It is a wonderful touch that provides the whole film with a spirit of warmth and respect. The film is written and narrated by acclaimed Oglala poet Layli Long Soldier, and its narration will be the first thing to strike you in Lakota Nation vs. United States.

The rhythmic refrain of “X marks the spot,” the soft, dignified, yet strong voice of Long Soldier, and the emotional roller-coaster of the story are truly mesmerizing. Tomaselli also serves as the editor of the film, and she, along with cinematographer Kevin Phillips use a wealth of archival and modern footage and rousing interviews with activists and leaders to tell this beautiful story of a land and a people who have survived exploitation, forced migration, and genocide, and who still wait for justice to come.

Lakota Nation vs. United States promotes resilience, valuing culture, standing up to oppression, and honoring history. The Lakota provide us with so many lessons from which to learn and grow into better versions of ourselves.

I give Lakota Nation vs. United States 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It releases July 21, 2023 in select markets and will roll out later to other locations.

There’s just one dream for the women of Ballygar to taste freedom: to win a pilgrimage to the sacred French town of Lourdes. With a little benevolent interference from their local priest, a group of close friends get their ticket of a lifetime.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ari P. comments, “If you like dramatic movies with comedic relief and you believe in Lourdes, The Miracle Club is the perfect film. Alongside its thorough plotline, it stars many known celebrity figures, such as Maggie Smith, Laura Linney and Kathy Bates.” See her full review below.

The Miracle Club
By Ari P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

If you like dramatic movies with comedic relief and you believe in Lourdes, The Miracle Club is the perfect film. Alongside its thorough plotline, it stars many known celebrity figures, such as Maggie Smith, Laura Linney and Kathy Bates.

The storyline begins in 1967 in Dublin, Ireland and Lourdes, France with three women, Eileen (Kathy Bates), Lily (Maggie Smith) and Dolly (Agnes O’Casey) participating in a talent show to win tickets to the Lourdes. Unexpectedly, Chrissie (Laura Linney), the daughter of Eileen’s and Lily’s late friend, shows up for the funeral of her mother. While grieving, Chrissie finds her mother’s voucher for Lourdes and decides to join them. Together, these four women experience the ups and downs of friendship and life and, although they all go to visit the Lourdes for different reasons, they have one thing in common: each prays for a miracle.

This movie is truly a gift to watch. It is the definition of hope and faith. Although the four actresses are all spectacular in their performance, my heart leans towards Maggie Smith playing Lily Fox. Lily struggles with the death of her son and her own health, yet always seems to make those around her happy. My favorite scene with Lily is when the women are at the Lourdes bathhouse and she hears Eileen scream. Then a nun comes out and says they are ready for Lily, to which she replies, “Well, I’m not!” which is kind of funny. I also love Agnes O’Casey’s portrayal of Dolly as a kind, but mentally struggling mom and wife, who takes her child Daniel (Eric D. Smith) to the Lourdes so she can make him speak. She believes it is her fault that he cannot speak, and tries her best to overcome his mental obstacle – that is my favorite characteristic about her. I also love the scenery of Lourdes; it is tranquil and peaceful, the perfect place to recollect your thoughts and find miracles.

The film’s message is that miracles do happen, although they may take time to occur. Please be aware that there is partial nudity, miscarriage and abortion references, slight suicide references, and some profanity.

I give The Miracle Club 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in select theaters on July 14, 2023.