KIDS FIRST! Jury Blog

For Love & Life: No Ordinary Campaign is an emotionally gripping documentary illustrating the power of love and determination in the face of adversity. The film follows the life of Brian Wallach and his wife Sandra in the aftermath of his ALS diagnosis at age 37. Exemplifying bravery, inspiration and hope, Brian and Sandra, continue to fight against a broken system for their own future, while seeking to build a brighter one for countless others.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tia O. comments, “The mood, editing, and celebrity cameos make this an excellent film to watch. I was very pleased to see celebrities such as Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Priscilla Chan, and countless others share their positive encounters with Brain and Sandra and the different ways in which they all support their campaign.” See her full review below.

For Love & Life: No Ordinary Campaign
By Tia O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

I had a pleasant time viewing For Love & Life: No Ordinary Campaign. The mood, editing, and celebrity cameos make this an excellent film to watch.

This documentary follows Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya, a couple from Chicago, who meet and fall in love while working during Obama’s 2008 campaign. Shortly after starting their family; news of Brian’s ALS diagnosis turned this family’s world upside down. However, Brian and Sandra were not going to let ALS stand in their way. This film follows the mass ALS movement sparked by Brian and Sandra, and how this couple’s journey gave a voice to the millions of people suffering with the disease and how they also brought attention to the US’s broken healthcare system.

I love the uplifting mood this documentary takes – the music and editing perfectly captivate the success and struggles that both Brain and Sandra faced while fighting for ALS. One scene that really stuck with me is when Brian and Sandra were preparing a speech that they were going to give to the government urging them to make the drugs that could help the symptoms associated with ALS accessible for all. The music by Emily Rice really adds in creating a suspenseful, yet captivating moment. As for the editing, supervising editor Miranda Yousef makes us feel immersed in this film with its very smooth transitions, transitions between interviews, personal video recordings, and animated info graphics. Lastly, I was very pleased to see celebrities such as Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Priscilla Chan, and countless others share their positive encounters with Brain and Sandra and the different ways in which they all support their campaign.

The film’s message is that when you encounter a problem, no matter how hopeless you may feel, there is always a solution that can often end up helping others along the way. This message is explored throughout the film and, even when discussing their trials and tribulations, this messaging remains true. The only thing to note is that there are some cuss words that are used.

I give For Love & Life: No Ordinary Campaign 4 out of 5 starts and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases on Prime Video on May 28, 2024. If you’re looking for a new documentary to watch I definitely recommend you check this one out!  

Harriet (Lucy Boynton) finds art imitating life when she discovers certain songs can transport her back in time — literally. While she relives the past through romantic memories of her former boyfriend (David Corenswet), her time traveling collides with a burgeoning new love interest in the present (Justin H. Min). As she takes her journey through the hypnotic connection between music and memory, she wonders — even if she could change the past, should she?

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “The Greatest Hits is an emotional comedy, drama, and fantasy film that highlights the impact of music. The cute yet sentimental storyline is unique, and I especially love how this film uses music as a metaphor to depict grief, and the stages people go through processing it.” See her full review below.  

The Greatest Hits 
By Zoë C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

The Greatest Hits is an emotional comedy, drama, and fantasy film that highlights the impact of music. The cute yet sentimental storyline is unique, and I especially love how this film uses music as a metaphor to depict grief, and the stages people go through processing it. 

The film introduces Harriet (Lucy Boynton) who loses her boyfriend in a car accident. The tragedy leaves Harriet with trauma and also the ability to go back in time. When she hears a song that’s connected with a memory, the ability to time travel is triggered, and Harriet goes back to that time. Harriet tries to bring Max back, and faces many life-challenge obstacles that don’t allow her to recover from his death. Two years later, Harriet remembers the accident like it happened yesterday—she visits a support group where she meets David (Justin H. Min). And so Harriet must “face the music” and make some very tough decisions.

This film is authentic, heartbreaking, and very relatable. I love the soundtrack and connected with it so much as I constantly listen to music, and I love how music symbolizes different stages of life.  Throughout the film, Harriet is desperately looking for ways to bring Max back. While this makes Harriet relatable, I also found this to be the film’s biggest flaw. That being said I did find the plot to be very cute and romantic.

The story is about overcoming grief, and I like how the film represents what that means to Harriet. However, the acting and script aren’t as strong as I wished. Lucy Boynton does deliver a very good performance as she shows how grief can harshly impact one’s life. And I liked Austin Crute’s performance as Harriet’s best friend—their chemistry is refreshing as he supports Harriet through her grieving process. Finally, I enjoy the aesthetic of this film—the warm cinematography is pleasing to the eye.

The message of this film is that sometimes we need to let go of the past to move forward with the present. 

I give The Greatest Hits 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  The Greatest Hits debuts in limited release in theaters on April 5, 2024 and on Hulu April 23, 2024.

An evil doctor (Weird Al Yankovic) wants to steal the world’s best soccer players’ talents, skills, and abilities. He targets Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Megan Rapinoe (both playing themselves) and turns them into horrifying “mutant” monster versions of themselves. But with the help of some children soccer players, “Weird Al” will have to overcome their team of heroes that relies on hard work and practice instead of a magic serum.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gavin S. comments, “The Soccer Football Movie is a delightful blend of humor, heart, and thrilling action sequences. From start to finish, the film captivated me with its engaging storyline and charming characters. It’s a joyride that kept me hooked throughout.” See his full review below.

The Soccer Football Movie
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

The Soccer Football Movie is a delightful blend of humor, heart, and thrilling action sequences. From start to finish, the film captivated me with its engaging storyline and charming characters. It’s a joyride that kept me hooked throughout.

In this animated adventure, a group of plucky kids, known as the Creature Catchers, embarks on an exciting journey to witness their soccer heroes, Zlatan and Megan Rapinoe (voiced by themselves) in action. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they discover that the players have been mutated by a strange slimy slug concocted by the eccentric Weird Al (voiced by Weird Al Yankovic). Now the creature catchers must team up with superstars to thwart a monstrous creature created by the nefarious slime.

This movie is a true gem! The clever humor, stellar voice acting, and stunning animation make it a joyride from start to finish. The jokes had me laughing out loud, and the voice acting by the remarkable cast brings the characters to life in a way that is both entertaining and endearing. The animation is top notch, with vibrant visuals that capture the excitement of the soccer matches, and the chaos of the creature’s rampage. Moreover, the underlying message of unity and camaraderie adds depth to the storyline, making it a film that resonates long after the credits roll.

Watching the creature catchers and the soccer stars come together to overcome obstacles and defeat the common enemy is not only thrilling, but also uplifting. The Soccer Football Movie is a winner for both soccer fans and animation lovers.

The film’s message is that teamwork makes the dream work and that, with support, anything can get done.

I give The Soccer Football Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12; this film is available on most streaming platforms now, be sure to check it out.

Kitty, the imaginary girl to whom Anne Frank wrote her famous diary, comes to life in the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. Her memories reawakened by reading the diary, believing that if she’s alive, Anne must be alive as well, she sets out on a quest to find Anne. We follow Kitty as she travels across Europe and back to Anne Frank’s time, armed with the precious book, in search of her beloved friend.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gavin S. comments, “I thoroughly enjoyed this film for its unique approach to storytelling and its ability to blend historical narratives with elements of fantasy. Anne’s imaginary friend, Kitty, embarks on a journey to find Anne, spending a lot of time trying to uncover the truth about Anne’s fate.” See his full review below.

Where is Anne Frank
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Where is Anne Frank? offers a poignant and innovative take on the story of Anne Frank through the lens of animation and the adventures of her imaginary friend, Kitty. I thoroughly enjoyed this film for its unique approach to storytelling and its ability to blend historical narratives with elements of fantasy.

Directed by Ari Folman, the story unfolds as Anne Frank’s diary comes to life years after Anne’s death. Anne’s imaginary friend, Kitty, embarks on a journey to find Anne, spending a lot of time trying to uncover the truth about Anne’s fate. Kitty learns about the harrowing experience that Anne and her family experienced during the holocaust, and the heartbreaking reality of their demise.

The film captivates audiences from the outset with its imaginative premise, as her imaginary friend Kitty, embarks on a quest to find Anne years after her death. This narrative device not only provides a fresh perspective on Anne’s life but also allows for a deeper exploration of her experiences and legacy. The animation is beautifully crafted, bringing both the historical setting and the fantasy elements of life with vibrant visuals and rich detail. The adventure that Kitty undertakes to uncover the truth about Anne’s fate is both suspenseful and emotionally resonant, keeping viewers engaged throughout.

The film’s message is that anyone has the right to live in freedom, no matter their race, religion, or culture.

Be forewarned this film does contain moderate profanity.

I give Where Is Anne Frank? 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 through 12, plus adults. Be sure to check it out. 

A boy with an active imagination faces his fears on an unforgettable journey through the night with his new friend: a giant, smiling creature named Dark.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalynn G. comments, “The film Orion and the Dark is a family friendly film that includes various types of emotions such as sad, happy, afraid and more.  I love the animation and the contrast between the light and dark.” See her full review below.  

Orion and the Dark
By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film Orion and the Dark is a family friendly film that includes various types of emotions such as sad, happy, afraid and more.  I love the animation and the contrast between the light and dark. 

The storyline follows a boy named Orion (Jacob Temblay). Orion is terrified of the dark until one night an entity named Dark comes to his house to show him there is no reason to be afraid. He takes Orion with him to show him his job. In the process, Dark takes Orion to see the other night entities. Everytime he goes to see all the night entities’ jobs he ends up messing them up. Orion explains to the other night entities how Light is amazing and Dark is bad. Dark overhears him and thinks nobody likes him. All the other night entities quit because they want to see how the Light is. Dark has to do his job all by himself now. Dark doesn’t want to do his job alone so he goes into the light and disappears. Orion gets all the night entities back together to save Dark. To do that dream goes in his imagination and finds Dark there. In the end Orion likes the dark and appreciates them now because without dark it was too light.

My favorite part of this film is when Dark takes Orion to see his job. I think it is so cool to see Dark and Orion fly through the sky. I also enjoy watching the night entities doing their job. I especially love Dream’s job. It is amazing how Dream goes into people’s imagination and makes their dreams out of something that has happened in their life. It is very surprising when the audience realizes that Orion and the Dark is a story that future Orion is telling his daughter, explaining how he gets over his fear of the dark.

The film’s message is to face your fears because if you don’t you will miss out on life. At the end, Orion faces his fear! He just does it and he feels better. He feels like he can accomplish and do anything now. 

I give Orion And The Dark 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12.  This film starts streaming on Netflix February 2, 2024.

The remarkable coming-of-age story of one of the most influential, dynamic and unexpected players in the history of basketball: Stephen Curry. This feature documentary — blending intimate cinéma vérité, archival footage and on camera interviews — documents Curry’s rise from an undersized college player at a small town Division I college to a four-time NBA champion, building one of the most dominant sports dynasties in the world.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Daniel S. comments, “Stephen Curry: Underrated is an extraordinary documentary with creative editing, accessibility, and a compelling story. I really enjoyed it and I think others will as well, whether you are an avid basketball fan or not.” See his full review below.  

Stephen Curry: Underrated
By Daniel S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

Stephen Curry: Underrated is an extraordinary documentary with creative editing, accessibility, and a compelling story. I really enjoyed it and I think others will as well, whether you are an avid basketball fan or not.

Stephen Curry: Underrated follows the humble beginnings and present day life of all-star basketball player Stephen Curry. Curry starts off obsessively playing basketball as a kid, and is later mentored by head coach Bob McKillop at Davidson College where he begins to become known. Despite his small height and build, he rises up the ranks in college basketball and eventually enters the NBA. With all the odds stacked against him, we witness his journey from dreaming of playing basketball professionally to winning four NBA championships.

This film shows hos Stephen Curry is a rare example of true commitment in an athlete. Curry devotes himself, not just to his performance, but his team, leading them to success. Editor J.D. Marlow seamlessly weaves together Curry’s past and present. From the old footage, we see his improvement and growth over the years. The more recent footage, shows how Curry’s past experiences shaped the athlete and person he is now. The time periods are interlaced so well that it feels like his younger self and present self are working in unison to achieve success. The beauty of this film is that anyone will be entertained — basketball fans will appreciate how it shows the journey of one of the most popular NBA players today, but anyone will enjoy the film for its compelling story. I am not a big basketball fan, but I found myself quickly immersed and fascinated by Stephen Curry’s story. I immediately connected with Curry, and cheered him on.

The documentary kept me glued to the screen because Curry’s story is especially gripping. I felt like I was on the journey with him as the film gives a detailed telling of his story. While most see the player as a “larger-than-life athlete,” the film explores the family-oriented aspects of his character, which makes him feel well grounded. His path is unique, and inspiring.

The film’smessage is about the power of devotion and passion. Curry’s willingness to overcome obstacles, and get up after falling down solidifies his place as one of the most successful players today.

I give Stephen Curry: Underrated 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for 12 to 18, plus adults. The documentary is available now on Apple TV+. 

Directed by Academy Award® Winner Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, Thor: Ragnarok) and based on a true story, Next Goal Wins follows the American Samoa soccer team, infamously known for their brutal 31-0 loss in 2001. With the World Cup Qualifiers approaching, the team hires down-on-his-luck, maverick coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) hoping he will turn the world’s worst soccer team around in this heartfelt underdog comedy.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic David E. comments, “Next Goal Wins, based on a true story, is a heartwarming and genuinely enjoyable film that captures the essence of teamwork, perseverance and the human spirit. It’s a family-friendly movie that offers both humor and feel-good moments and is told with an authenticity that makes it relatable and engaging.” See his full review below.  

Next Goal Wins
By David E., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Next Goal Wins, based on a true story, is a heartwarming and genuinely enjoyable film that captures the essence of teamwork, perseverance and the human spirit. It’s a family-friendly movie that offers both humor and feel-good moments and is told with an authenticity that makes it relatable and engaging.

The story revolves around the determined coach, Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) who takes on the challenging task of coaching an American Samoa soccer team with a historically abysmal loss record. Their only goal is to score one point, a seemingly insurmountable task.

This film is a delightful cinematic experience that celebrates the power of belief, teamwork, and the indomitable human spirit in the world of sports.  As the film develops, it dives deeper into the characters’ lives, particularly Coach Rongen and the soccer team. The connections that form between the players showcase the power of heartfelt camaraderie in sports. The film brings out both the emotional and comedic aspects of these players journey. It’s clear that the cast and crew put their heart and soul into this project, resulting in a standout film. The camera work is outstanding – it captures the action on the field with finesse, making you feel like you’re right there with the team as they strive for victory. Michael Fassbender’s performance as Coach Rongen is commendable, as he skillfully balances humor with emotional elements in the film, delivering a memorable character. Oscar Kightley, as Tavita, Coach Rongen’s right-hand man, brings a good-spirited energy to the film. His character adds to the loveable dynamic of the team, making it easy for the audience to root for them. The film’s pacing is fast-paced, keeping the story engaging and ensuring that viewers remain invested in the team’s journey from start to finish.

The film’s core message is a simple, yet powerful one: believe in yourself and have fun. It’s a message that resonates with both young and adult audiences, reminding us of the importance of enjoying the process and having faith in our abilities. It’s important to note that the film contains some profanity, alcohol use, glimpses of drug use, and a transgender lead character, which may require some parental guidance depending on the age of the viewers.

I give Next Goal Wins a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults who appreciate uplifting and heartwarming stories. It releases in theaters on November 17, 2023.

Ammu’s Treasures is a gift of intergenerational love and wisdom, with profound messages for everyday living. A three-volume omnibus of 35 songs and 21 chants, Chandrika invites its listeners to reminisce or make new memories with traditional folk tunes and familiar popular songs and poems. This music collection also includes ancient Vedic chants set to Indian scales, aimed to soothe and relax. Ammu’s Treasures features many maestros including Cyro Baptista, Martin Bejerano, Peter Calo, Purbayan Chatterjee, Rakesh Chaurasia, Béla Fleck, Eugene Friesen, Maeve Gilchrist, Jamey Haddad, Bobby Keyes and more. Marc Lumer and Bob Spang contributed their talents to beautiful accompanying lyric videos.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Ammu’s Treasures is great for young kids looking for auditory entertainment; with pop songs, poems, Vedic chants, and more, listeners will have more than enough to be transported to a whole new musical world.” Ella S. adds, “The children’s album Ammu’s Treasures is very well sang by Chandrika Tandon. The vocals are strong and lyrical. It brings back memories of my early childhood and the songs I used to sing, and the happy, cartoonish music videos will appeal to young kids.” See their full reviews below.

Ammu’s Treasures by Chandrika Tandon
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Ammu’s Treasures is great for young kids looking for auditory entertainment; with pop songs, poems, Vedic chants, and more, listeners will have more than enough to be transported to a whole new musical world.

Ammu’s Treasures is a three-volume omnibus of 35 songs and 21 chants compiled by renowned musician Chandrika Tandon. The album features many maestros including Cyro Baptista, Martin Bejerano, Rakesh Chaurasia, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and more.

Ammu’s Treasures is beautifully composed, with each piece clearly having hours of thought behind its instrumentals, vocals and mixing. Plus, the accompanying lyric videos by Marc Lumer and Bob Spang are vibrant and enjoyable. The album was conceptualized by Tandon as a gift to her grandchildren, and it’s evident that she painstakingly pieced together the motley array of songs in the album; I’ll admit that the mix of pop songs, nursery rhymes, chants and instrumental pieces took me by surprise at the beginning, but only those who actually listen to the songs will realize how they come together to form a beautiful lyrical panoply. My personal favorite pieces are “Chants – To the Light,” “Listen to the Pouring Rain,” and “Au Clair la Lune,” as much for their nostalgic value as for their elegance.

Ammu’s Treasures was created to spread intergenerational love through art (one of the purest kinds of love!). And you do truly feel it after listening to two or three numbers, a magical sensation that envelopes you with joy and warmth. It’s truly wonderful.

I give Ammu’s Treasures 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 3 to 5 plus adults. Ammu’s Treasures released on all major audio vendors beginning September 7, 2023.

Ammu’s Treasures by Chandrika Tandon
By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

The children’s album Ammu’s Treasures is very well sang by Chandrika Tandon. The vocals are strong and lyrical. It brings back memories of my early childhood and the songs I used to sing, and the happy, cartoonish music videos will appeal to young kids.

Ammu’s Treasures is a collection of 35 songs and 21 chants that range from traditional folk tunes to familiar and popular songs and nursery rhymes for multi-generations, sung by Grammy nominee Chandrika Tandon. It includes some music videos featuring an animated family of colorful bears — one of whom is dressed in traditional Indian clothing – along with other characters.

Ammu’s Treasures is appropriate for a multigenerational audience, particularly younger kids. For example, babies and toddlers will enjoy the nursery rhymes like “Teddy Bears’ Picnic,” “Hush Little Baby” and “Bye Bye Blackbird.” The colorfully animated music videos, such as “Miller of the Dee” will also attract younger viewers. Many of the songs will be familiar to both children and adults, such as “Edelweiss” and “Scarborough Fair.” Songs like “Au Clair de la Lune,” “Molly Malone,” “Vive Le Compagnie,” and “Que Sera Sera” might remind adults of their own childhoods. Ammu’s Treasures features many maestros including Cyro Baptista, Martin Bejerano, Peter Calo, Purbayan Chatterjee, Rakesh Chaurasia, Béla Fleck, Eugene Friesen, Maeve Gilchrist, Jamey Haddad, Bobby Keyes, Kevin Kliesch, Howard Levy, Romero Lubambo, Marcus Rojas, Dave Schroeder, Michael Ward-Bergeman, Kenny Werner, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, Scott Cannizzaro, Teese Gohl, John Kiehl, Kevin Killen, Mirek Vana, and more.

Marc Lumer and Bob Spang contributed their talents to the lyric videos. Chandrika Tandon also acknowledges her Indian heritage with songs such as “Surganani.” In the song “There’s a Hole in My Bucket” the name of the girl is changed from Liza to Kavi, which is an Indian girls’ name. I like that.

Ammu’s Treasures conveys an overall happy, cheerful message meant for the ears of younger audiences. There is no inappropriate language in any of the songs.

I give Ammu’s Treasures 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 5, plus adults. Ammu’s Treasures released on all major audio vendors beginning September 7, 2023.

The Singleton Foundation for Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship is launching Season 2 of Faceplant, a documentary style series about some familiar faces, their career and life struggles, and how they overcame them to get back up stronger than ever.  From Hollywood actors, directors and producers to Olympic athletes, the show gives inspiration as we hear how they took the lemons life gave them and turned it into lemonade. Uncover the personal stories from people who discover the value of failure in pursuit of their dreams. One person highlighted in Season 2 is Damian Escobar in The Side of Success That Nobody Talks About. Originally from Jamaica, Queens, New York, world renowned violinist Damien’s inspiring journey of making it big (3rd place on America’s Got Talent), losing it all (and sleeping on his mother’s couch), fights to rebuild for a second chance at success —  because if you can get to the top, you can also surely find yourself at the bottom.

Ashleigh C. comments about this episode, “From struggle to symphony, the inspirational and moving documentary The Side of Success No One Talks About beautifully captures the remarkable journey of a musician who’s weathered life’s toughest storms to reclaim his passion.” See her full review below.

Faceplant, Season 2: The Side of Success No One Talks About
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 19

From struggle to symphony, the inspirational and moving documentary The Side of Success No One Talks About beautifully captures the remarkable journey of a musician who’s weathered life’s toughest storms to reclaim his passion.

This short documentary is part of the popular docu-series, Faceplant, about seven entrepreneurs who share their game-changing life lessons with us. This film offers a portrait of Damien Escobar, a gifted violinist whose journey to success and back is heartwarming. From his early start in music, his acceptance into Juilliard at 9 years old and performing for three U.S. presidents, to the lows of financial hardship and personal crisis, this documentary gives us a glimpse into the rollercoaster life of a musical prodigy.

This is a short film hat will resonate with a wide range of audiences, from aspiring musicians to anyone in need of inspiration during challenging times. The film exquisitely profiles Damien and the talented and ambitious individuals who mirror him. Damien’s resilience and passion for music shine through every frame, making it impossible not to root for him, in this a classic underdog-to-hero story. One of the standout aspects of this documentary is its ability to convey the emotional depth of Damien’s journey. The audience can feel his triumphs and setbacks, and the film truly makes you emotionally invested in his story in a short period of time. Additionally, the interviews with Damien provide valuable insights into his experiences and mindset. My favorite part is when Damien shares his rediscovery of his love for music and embarks on a successful solo career. It’s a testament to the power of passion and determination, and it’s truly inspiring to witness him rise from adversity.

This film carries a powerful message of resilience, the pursuit of one’s true passion, and the importance of finding joy in the journey of life. It encourages viewers to reflect on their own paths and the obstacles they may encounter along the way.

I give Faceplant, Season 2: The Side of Success No One Talks About 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can find it streaming online now at Millionstories.com.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is an upcoming movie based of the coming-of-age young adult novel by American author Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Set in El Paso, Texas in 1987, the novel follows two Mexican teenagers, Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana, their friendship, and their struggles with racial and ethnic identity, sexuality, and family relationships.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe emerges in this convoluted cinema era of super heroes and special effects offering a refreshing story. Everything from the storyline, to the cinematography and indie film style is right up my alley.” See her full review below.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
By Zoe C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe emerges in this convoluted cinema era of super heroes and special effects offering a refreshing story. Everything from the storyline, to the cinematography and indie film style is right up my alley.

The story begins in 1987 with a boy named Aristotle (Max Pelayo) who keeps to himself. He goes to the local swimming pool in hopes of learning to swim and meets Dante (Reese Gonzales). The two instantly click as they realize they have a lot in common and start hanging out every day. Dante moves away for a year but the two boys exchange letters and remain in contact. Both Dante and Aristotle have a long road of self-discovery ahead, but that doesn’t interfere with the strong connection between them.

I love how this film deals with so many different themes all at once — family dilemmas, sexuality, self-growth, and ethnic identity. I always relate to seeing Latino representation in films; Aristotle is Mexican and I love that this film has a lot to do with his heritage. The cinematography is delicate and bright as is the overall aesthetic of the film. My favorite scene is when Aristotle and Dante tie their Converse shoes together and hang them on a light post at night. The lighting and simple concept of tying their shoes together is so beautiful; especially in the way that scene is shot. It is so powerful and meaningful.

The acting is also impressive. Max Pelayo’s portrayal of Aristotle is terrific – despite Aristotle having lots of inner conflicts, Max portrays him in such a beautiful way. I love Reese Gonzales as Dante as well; Dante is a very awkward person but in the cutest way and Reese captures that dichotomy and plays into that tricky kind of feel. I’m a huge fan of Eugenio Derbez, who plays Jamie Mendoza, Aristotle’s dad. He’s such an incredible actor. Eva Longoria, as Dante’s mom, and Veronica Falćon, as Aristotle’s mom, both really caught my attention. I love how both moms are so different and both love their kids infinitely. Veronica is the perfect example of a Mexican mom. I wish Eva had more screen time but nevertheless she is great. This film is based on a novel with the same name by Benjamin Alire Sáenz and is produced by Eugenio Derbez and Lin-Manuel Miranda who narrates the audio book.

The film’s message is that true love always prevails, but takes time. Please note that it contains  some strong violence, strong language, sexual material, teen drug and alcohol use and smoking.

I give Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters, HBO and Netflix September 8, 2023.