KIDS FIRST! News

After losing the gold and fleeing the Outer Banks, Season 3 finds the Pogues washed ashore on a desert island that, for a brief moment, seems like an idyllic home. Officially deemed “Poguelandia,” the island’s newest residents spend their days fishing, swimming, and reveling in the carefree lifestyle of their temporary dwelling. But things quickly go south for John B, Sarah, Kiara, Pope, JJ, and Cleo when they find themselves once again caught up in a race for the treasure, quite literally running for their lives. They’re broke and far from home, they can’t trust anyone, Ward and Rafe are hungry for revenge, and there’s a ruthless Caribbean Don who will stop at nothing to find the bounty. Was the treasure ever within their reach? Or was it all a trap to stop them once and for all? Either way, it’s the Pogues against the world – and the only way out is together.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “The third season of the teen (and adult) adventure series, Outer Banks, is back and even more action-packed! This season is filled with loads of treasure hunting, close escapes, daring rescues and romance. I love how much the plot and characters change from the previous seasons.” See her full review and Interview with  Chae Stokes and Rudy Pankow below.

The third season of the teen (and adult) adventure series, Outer Banks, is back and even more action-packed!

Outer Banks: Season 3
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

This season is filled with loads of treasure hunting, close escapes, daring rescues and romance. I love how much the plot and characters change from the previous seasons.

The story of the Pogues continues as the show picks up right where it left off with John B (Chase Stokes), JJ (Rudy Pankow), Kiara (Madison Bailey), Sarah (Madelyn Cline) and Cleo (Carlacia Grant) stranded on an uninhabited island they’ve named “Poguelandia.”

But once they get rescued from the island, things go south. And the search for treasure isn’t nearly over yet.

Since this is the third season of Outer Banks, I highly recommend watching the previous seasons to things make sense.

Fans of previous seasons will love this as there are many high stakes chases and unexpected plot twists. This season doesn’t get old and keeps you very engaged.

The cast of this show is extremely talented. The best performances come from Chase Stokes (John B), Charles Hanford (Big John) and Andy McQueen (Mr. Singh). Chase Stokes’ character goes through a lot emotionally, especially in this season, and he makes it very believable and realistic.

We hadn’t seen very much of Charles Hanford as Big John in the first two seasons, so it is very entertaining and surprising to get to know him more and see what kind of person he is.

Mr. Singh is a new character this season, but his character fits in with the plot super well. Andy McQueen perfectly portrays him. I can really sense his background and feel what his past is even though we never see it.

The messages of this show, similar to seasons one and two, are that family can be chosen, change happens and should be accepted, and mistakes are okay because they are a part of life. Additionally it shows how powerful love from friends is. Be aware that there is some profanity, violence and many risky things the kids do that are dangerous.

Outer Banks: Season 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out on Netflix February 23, 2023.

https://youtu.be/T0w8iL2vS04

Rural Ireland 1981. A quiet, neglected girl is sent away from her dysfunctional family to live with foster parents for the summer. She blossoms in their care, but in this house where there are meant to be no secrets, she discovers one.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Filled with pathos, The Quiet Girl is a beautiful film with a smartly-written screenplay and luminous cinematography. The story keeps you enthralled, and, by the end, audiences will understand that melancholy and silence don’t always go together.” Emma D. adds, “The Quiet Girl is, by far, one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. I commend the director, Colm Bairéad, for showcasing the dazzling scenery of Ireland. This film is mainly spoken in Gaelic and I had to rely on the subtitles to understand the plot, which made it a little hard to connect with at times.” See their full reviews below.

The Quiet Girl
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Filled with pathos, The Quiet Girl is a beautiful film with a smartly-written screenplay and luminous cinematography. The story keeps you enthralled, and, by the end, audiences will understand that melancholy and silence don’t always go together.

Set in rural Ireland and one of a dying breed of Irish-language films, The Quiet Girl is based on Claire Keegan’s short story “Foster” and a riff on the famous 1952 Oscar®-award-winning John Ford film The Quiet Man. Nine-year-old Cait (Catherine Clinch) is withdrawn; she lives with her neglectful parents, sisters, and baby brother. Her tired parents send her to the Cinnsealach family (her maternal aunt and uncle). Eibhlin and Sean Cinnsealach (Carrie Crowley and Andrew Bennett) differ in how they accept Cait, but both share a sense of compassion and yet deep loss, too. The film takes its time to reveal exactly what the root of this sense of loss is and does so elegantly. Through her time with the Cinnsealachs, Cait realizes the true meaning of family, kindness and care.

Director Colm Bairéad has achieved a commendable task by making nearly the whole film in Irish Gaelic, an endangered language that Bairéad wants to promote globally. The cast carry the film with their understated performances, which are, like everything else in the film “quiet” and subtle. Clinch’s honesty in her portrayal of the withdrawn, nuanced Cait shines through. I also have a soft spot for Carrie Crowley and Andrew Bennett. Crowley’s motherly kindness is like a tight hug for viewers. Bennett’s character is much colder than Crowley’s toward Cait initially, but Bennett uses his prowess to transform his character from an antagonist to a flawed supporting character easily. I love the cinematography and the film as well. The way the endless fields, slurry pit, and beaten country roads were filmed seems to emanate a sense of peace and has a unique luster. The music in the film is subtle, which also adds to the “quiet” feeling of the film, as does the laconic script, which focuses more on the characters’ bonds than the words coming out of their mouths, making for a deeply meaningful viewing experience.

The Quiet Girl promotes kindness, acceptance and the power of silence. In terms of parental warnings, Cait runs off a few times in the film but always returns to the Cinnsealach home.

I give The Quiet Girl 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Quiet Girl releases in theaters nationwide on February 24, 2023.

The Quiet Girl
By Emma Defot, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The Quiet Girl is a beautiful film with amazing cinematography that surely captivated me. Although the movie is beautiful, due to it plot and language it may be a difficult watch for younger kids.

The film is set in rural Ireland in the early 1980s and follows the story of Cait (Catherine Clinch), a nine-year-old girl, who is sent away from her dysfunctional family for the summer. Her family is overcrowded and poor, which results in Cait trying to hide in plain site from those around her. When she arrives at a distant relative’s house for the summer, she thrives under their car and, overtime discovers one painful truth, which may change everything.

The Quiet Girl is, by far, one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. I commend the director, Colm Bairéad, for showcasing the dazzling scenery of Ireland. This film is mainly spoken in Gaelic and I had to rely on the subtitles to understand the plot, which made it a little hard to connect with at times. Catherine Clinch gives an amazing and heart-moving performance, and is definitely the highlight of the film. The best parts are definitely the parts with Sean (Andrew Bennett), Cait’s foster father, and Cait which are heartwarming and a contrast to Cait’s relationship with her father. The relationship takes longer to develop than Cait’s relationship with her stepmother and thus comes across as more meaningful. The movie is a bit slow at times, but still captured me.

The Quiet Girl shows the importance of love and warmth from others, in adults and especially in kids. You should know that the film covers many serious topics such as abuse and death, which make it unsuitable for younger audiences.

I give The Quiet Girl 3 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters February 24, 2023.

The discovery that their house is haunted by a ghost named Ernest makes Kevin’s family a social media sensation. But when Kevin and Ernest get to the bottom of the mystery of Ernest’s past, they become targets of the CIA.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Nathalia J. Comments, “The adventure/comedy film We Have a Ghost, directed by Christopher Landon, is thrilling, captivating and engaging. I like how this film balances elements of comedy and drama, while still maintaining a suspenseful plot.” See her full review and interview with director, Christoher Landon below.

We Have A Ghost
By Nathalia J. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

The adventure/comedy film We Have a Ghost, directed by Christopher Landon, is thrilling, captivating and engaging. I like how this film balances elements of comedy and drama, while still maintaining a suspenseful plot.

Based on the short story, “Ernest,” by Geoff Manaugh, this film follows the Presley family as they embark on a mission to find a new home. The home they hope to make lifelong memories in, is haunted by a ghost named Ernest who quickly comes to be known as nothing other than misunderstood. Since  Ernest has no recollection of how or why he died, his soul is unable to fully leave earth. Eventually, the youngest child of the Presley family, Kevin, makes it his life mission to find this out and with that, the family gains fame.

My favorite character is most-definitely Ernest (David Harbour). Wonderful performance! Considering that David Harbour had zero previous experience with a character such as Ernest, he portrays the role magnificently. He is able to gain pity from the viewers, which is extremely rare for ghosts in films. Ernest’s character development evolves perfectly, allowing viewers to grasp the moments of importance responsible for changing Ernest’s perspective on life. It allows us to think of Ernest as a misunderstood, confused and helpless soul rather than an angry and malicious ghost. The spectrum of emotions that Ernest experiences do not feel rushed, but are perfectly timed out and displayed.

My favorite aspect of this film is how it differs from previous adventure or horror-based films. In most cases, the threat (Ernest) will not associate with the victims – the Presley Family — in any way other than causing them harm. However, We Have a Ghost offers a fresh dynamic of friendship and cooperation, allowing viewers to not get stuck in the same thriller film cycle. Instead of expecting certain scenes or character motives to take place, I loved seeing something fresh in this film genre. I commend Director Christopher Landon for incorporating new and unexpected ideas to this film.

This film’s message is to appreciate, value and love the people in your life. Appreciate the littlest moments, because at any given time, those moments can turn into only memories –live life to the very fullest.

I give We Have A Ghost 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases on Netflix February 24, 2023. Enjoy!

Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne, along with Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne, explore the Quantum Realm, where they interact with strange creatures and embark on an adventure that goes beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Sydney S. comments, “This film is every Marvel fan’s dream. The special effects are phenomenal and illustrate the Quantum Realm in such an interesting way.” Jude A. adds, “While being carried on the back of a strong performance by Jonathan Majors, Ant-Man: Quantumania is strictly a setup film, which is somewhat pointless, because it sets up what Marvel fans already know. Regardless, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’s visuals are where it shines, literally and figuratively.” Gavin S. comments, “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is mind-blowing; I enjoyed it a lot mainly because of its amazing CGI. But, the acting is stunning and the script is hilarious. This film definitely held my attention from start to end.” See their full reviews and interviews below.

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is the new raging Marvel movie! It’s packed with action and comedy that I loved! This film is captivating and visually incredible.

This storyline follows the journey of Scott, also known as Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), and his daughter Cassandra (Kathryn Newton) who end up in the Quantum Realm with a few other people. As Cassie gains powers, she begins to experiment with them. The group is transported to the Quantum Realm. It’s up to them to get out safely with the many challenging obstacles they have ahead.

This film is every Marvel fan’s dream. The main characters are Scott and Cassie Lang, accompanied by Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly), Hank (Michael Douglas), Janet (Michelle Pfeiffer) and Kang (Jonathan Majors). These actors portray so much emotion throughout the film, plus they deliver their lines with humor, and I definitely found myself laughing while watching the film. The special effects are phenomenal and illustrate the Quantum Realm in such an interesting way.

My favorite part is when the group drinks the special potion that makes them understand the foreign languages. By doing that, the humans and creatures from the Quantum Realm can converse and get a hint about the motives of the other group. It’s a clever idea. Of course, I can’t forget the costumes. The Ant-Man and Wasp suits, as well as Cassie’s, look awesome, and they are a repeat from the previous Ant-Man movies. I do recommend watching the first two Ant-Man movies in order to understand the backstory, but it isn’t completely necessary.

The film’s message is that you should always put family first, because you are stronger together. The film has a heartfelt story about how family means everything and they will always be there for you. Cassie and Scott care about each other so much that they would sacrifice themselves to keep the other safe. There is some slight profanity, but nothing too inappropriate. There is a lot of action and blood, which may be disturbing for younger viewers.. 

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on February 17, 2023. Come and join us in the Quantum Realm!

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania manages to clench the undying thirst for the unknown within the Marvel Cinematic Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Universe, yet introduces so much that it doesn’t really introduce anything at all. While being carried on the back of a strong performance by Jonathan Majors, Ant-Man: Quantumania is strictly a setup film, which is somewhat pointless, because it sets up what Marvel fans already know. Regardless of leaving little to no impact, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’s visuals are where it shines, literally and figuratively. In a film that takes place almost entirely in a CGI world, Marvel creates its own Star Wars and perfects every minute computer generated detail.

Picking up after the events of Avengers: Endgame, with the entire world rehabilitating, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania  kicks off (or flies off, because… ants). The audience sees the new luxurious life of Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) – Hero, father and self-proclaimed “author.” The story quickly introduces the new struggle Scott has for raising his newly teenage daughter, Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton). When Cassie reveals she has been tampering with Quantum Realm technology, it’s too late. The whole Ant-Man crew gets shrunken down into the Quantum Realm (a subatomic world beneath Earth). The rest of the story follows the whole family venturing to find a way out of the realm, while Kang the Conqueror hunts them relentlessly. 

For the past couple years, Marvel has had major controversy regarding their CGI and VFX artists (mainly with their Disney+ shows). At least for Ant-Man: Quantumania, they seem to be back on track, or starting to be. The images are impeccable and matched with a strong score; the auditory and visual experience is automatically enhanced. IMAX is the correct way to view the film.

Despite the irrelevant plot, Jonathan Majors conquers the show. He emphasizes the true power of Kang, with a blood-curdling scream that’ll make sure he is thought about well after the credits roll. Although, the film fails to utilize him to the extent they could have, leaving the audience wanting more, and not in a positive way. 

Like all the other films put through the Marvel formula, this filmdoes not disappoint with its fair share of comedy, foul language and violence. When dealing with a villain known for annihilating entire worlds and timelines, of course the audience will see a lot more than a simple punch thrown on the big screen. In terms of gore however, it does not go there to a large extent. Underneath the antics, the story pairs with a large theme of family, and teaches the moral that love of all kinds always perseveres.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can find Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania in theatres on February 17, 2023. Make sure to check it out! 

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
By Gavin S. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is mind-blowing; I enjoyed it a lot mainly because of its amazing CGI. But, the acting is stunning and the script is hilarious. This film definitely held my attention from start to end.

The storyline follows a man/superhero named Scott Lang (Paul Rudd), whose daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton) creates a device that can send messages to the Quantum Realm. After a signal is sent a portal appears, and they all get sucked in — Scott and Cassie along with Hank Pym (Michael Douglass), Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer). They explore the Quantum Realm and try to find a way out.

I really enjoyed this film. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is really amazing, particularly since I am a huge MCU / Marvel fan. One thing that caught my attention is the CGI which is very realistic. The sets, the aliens, and even the Quantum ships all look so real. Another thing that really pops out is the acting, which is amazing. For instance, when one of them gets hurt it looks real, because the actors bring that to life. When someone uses their powers that also looks very realistic. For example, when Kang does his energy blast it looks so real. Also, when Scott and Cassie transform and change sizes throughout the movie that is excellent. The humorous dialogue really is one of the best parts. I particularly enjoyed the part when Scott doesn’t know what the Quantum people are saying; his reaction is hilarious. I laughed almost throughout the whole film. Another thing I really like is the cinematography. I just love how when something explodes the camera shakes along with it; that made me feel as if I was there in the scene.

The film’s lesson is an inspiring reminder that, just because something isn’t happening to you, it doesn’t mean it’s not happening. I relate to this because I find that people will ignore your problems, but when the same thing happens to them they start to understand how you felt. Be aware that it does contain some gore, weaponry and foul language.

I give Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases available in theaters February 19, 2023. Be sure to check it out.

Based on Marvel’s hit comic books, “Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur” follows the adventures of super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur, whom she accidentally brings into present-day New York City through a portal. Bolstered by Devil Dino’s fierce loyalty and brawn and the loving support of her family and best friend Casey, Lunella sets out to make a difference and protect her beloved Lower East Side neighborhood.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “This show is based on the hit comic books from Marvel. I love how each episode feels like a mini movie. There’s so much attention to detail and each episode has a very focused storyline. This series isn’t as intense or violent as other Marvel shows and films, so it is much more suitable for younger audiences.” Tiana S. adds, “I love how well the series connects to the actual comic book featuring the main characters Lunella and Devil Dinosaur. From the animation, the costumes, to the gadgets, everything relates to the original comic story. My favorite part of the series is when Lunella is fighting multiple villains in the episode.” See their full reviews and interviews below.

Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Based on the comics of the same name, Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur is a witty, realistic and charming animated series for all superhero lovers, young and old!

Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows Lunella Lafayette (Diamond White), 13-year-old genius, after she accidentally brings a dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore) to her home in present-day New York City via a self-made portal. With the dinosaur’s help, they protect the Lower East side from harm, and become known as “Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur.”

This show is based on the hit comic books from Marvel. I love how each episode feels like a mini movie. There’s so much attention to detail and each episode has a very focused storyline. This series isn’t as intense or violent as other Marvel shows and films, so it is much more suitable for younger audiences. Even though Lunella is a super genius and has a pet dinosaur, the show is incredibly relatable. It’s full of diverse characters, as well as a diverse cast and crew, and it highlights realistic things that would and could happen to a teenager living in New York City. The animation is dazzling. 

All of the colors pop and the designs for the characters and backgrounds are so vibrant. It looks like it’s straight out of a comic book! I absolutely love the intro song, written and produced by Raphael Saadiq, and performed by Diamond White. It’s so catchy and bubbly, and it really fits the vibe of the show. 

I also like the performances of Lunella and her family. Lunella is voiced by Diamond White, and she truly sounds just like a normal teenage girl. She, along with her family, are so hilarious as their characters have good comedic chemistry. My favorite character is Devil Dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore) because,  even though he’s a 10-ton dinosaur, he’s so cute and loving towards Lunella.

The messages of this show are to use your gifts to help the world, and to help those who can’t help themselves.

I give Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The first episode of this show releases on the Disney Channel February 10, 2023 and will release on Disney+ shortly after.

Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur are ready to fight crime in the new animated series: Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur!  Based on the comic book of the same name, this show highlights the world of S.T.E.M. to young children and inspires learning more about it. Fans of the original comic book and other Marvel fans will love the new series as well.

Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette (Diamond White), who one day—while helping bring power back to her town—accidentally makes a time portal and spawns a ten-ton red T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur (Fred Tatasciore), into present-day New York City. The duo works together on missions to protect the city’s Lower East Side from danger.

I love how well the series connects to the actual comic book featuring the main characters Lunella and Devil Dinosaur. From the animation, the costumes, to the gadgets, everything relates to the original comic story. My favorite part of the series is when Lunella is fighting multiple villains in the episode. During that time she is constantly asked what her hero name is and she never is able to give an answer. That scene adds humor to the show and gives a bit of backstory on the title. It’s incredible how Marvel is now incorporating a kids’ animated series to the MCU. It’s a great addition! The characters are extremely relatable in this series. Great detail is given to character development and design, even down to Lunella’s goggles. I love the way different shapes appear in them based on what she’s saying or on her emotions. This show is highly creative. 

This series highlights the importance of friendship, acceptance, being yourself and using your strengths to do something great. In the series, even though the Devil Dinosaur randomly shows up and is a different species, Lunella is able to bond and become friends with it. She also gets teased because she is extremely intelligent. When she accepts her gifts and becomes Moon Girl, she is then able to be herself and use her tech-savvy talents to help save her community.

I give this series 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 5-12, plus adults. You can watch the premiere of Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur on Disney Channel on February 10, 2023, and on Disney+ starting February 15, 2023.