KIDS FIRST! News

Direct from Sea World, the world-famous attraction in Southern California where this film’s DVD-launch festivities were just held, nine-year-old KIDS FIRST! youth film critic Anthony Aranda offers this review of last summer’s theatrical release Mr.Popper’s Penguins. Anthony, one of the 2011 winners of KIDS FIRST! Film Critics Search, has a full year under his belt of being a KIDS FIRST! youth film critic, and shares some of his Sea World/DVD launch activities here and on an upcoming segment of the KIDS FIRST! radio show “Coming Attractions,” which streams on VoiceAmerica Kids.

“I was able to see Mr. Popper’s Penguins at Sea World San Diego camp. They held an overnight camp that was really fun. We got to sleep next to the penguin exhibit, get a tour of Sea World and watch Mr. Popper’s Penguins while lying in our sleeping bags. The next morning, we got to go and feed the sea lions and then went to see the turtles. My favorite part was seeing the penguins, though, because they are really cool. The movie was really awesome but even cooler to watch while lying right next to actual penguins!”

Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Reviewed by Anthony Aranda
(See his full review on video.)

I am reviewing a hilarious movie called Mr. Popper’s Penguins. I love this movie a lot because it is really funny and a little bit crazy!

This movie is all about Mr. Popper, played by Jim Carrey, whose father passes away and leaves him six penguins. After Mr. Popper’s son and daughter come over, they name the six penguins: Stinky, Bitey, Nimrod, Lovey, Captain and Loudy. Three of the penguins lay one egg each and one of the eggs doesn’t make it. Mr. Popper did everything he could to help the egg survive but it didn’t work. Later, the penguins get stolen by someone at the zoo. They plan to separate the babies from the older penguins. Mr. Popper goes into the zoo, frees the penguins and traps the people who stole the penguins.
 
Some of the main characters in the movie are Mr. Popper, the six penguins, Janie and Billy. My favorite character is Mr. Popper because he takes care of the penguins throughout the movie even though sometimes he doesn’t want to. He is also a really funny character; sometimes he goes nuts when he gets really mad.

My favorite part in the movie is when Mr. Popper opens up his shower door and a whole bunch of water comes rushing out because Captain had filled the whole shower up. Mr. Popper is pushed toward the stairs and has to hang on because the water is pushing him over. Then Captain comes over and poops in his face, which causes Mr. Popper to fall. It is hilarious!!

I would recommend this movie for all ages because it is super funny and there is no violence or parts that would scare anyone. This movie is a good movie because it helps to show the importance of family. Go out and buy this movie when it comes out on Blu-ray and DVD on December 7.

The 2012 KIDS FIRST! Film Critics Search is going on now. Entries must be received by KIDS FIRST! by midnight December 31. For full information, click here.

Photos: Mr. Popper’s Penguins DVD box cover (top), Anthony Aranda (bottom) 

Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer, reviewed below by then-nine-year-old KIDS FIRST! youth film critic Makai Weber Colvin, is one of many titles Makai has reviewed over this past year. The KIDS FIRST! youth film critic role has also given her the opportunity to attend red carpet events and interview film talent in person. The campaign is now on (through midnight December 31) for eight lucky kids aged six to 14 who will be next year’s KIDS FIRST! youth film critics, and Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer is one of five titles now available on DVD and Blu-ray they can choose from to enter. Click here for information and tips on how to enter.

Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer
Reviewed by Makai Weber Colvin
(See her full review on video.)

I’ve been watching Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer, based on the best-selling books by Megan McDonald. Jordana Beatty plays the part of Judy Moody, a young girl with a really wild imagination. When her summer plans get turned upside-down, Judy starts a “Thrill Contest” with her three best friends. Unfortunately, all Judy’s thrills get spoiled — until she joins her brother, Stink, on the hunt for Big Foot, who’s been seen around their town.

I liked this movie because it has a lot of fun and action in it. The super-silly mix of animation and live action is the perfect way to tell this story; it makes you feel like you’re actually there having fun with the characters.

I really liked Aunt Opal, played by Heather Graham, because she’s like a kid in a grown-up’s body. She makes every scene exciting. Judy’s teacher, Mr. Todd, (Jaleel White), is every kid’s dream — he’s charming and makes learning a joyful adventure.

If your summer is getting boring, or if you want to make it even more fun, check out Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer when it comes to a theater near you. I suggest this movie for kids of all ages and even most parents will like it. I give it five out of five stars. Catch Judy Moody to make your summer a “Not Bummer.”

Photos: Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer DVD box cover (top), Makai Weber Colvin (bottom)