KIDS FIRST! News

After an epic summer at Camp Shallow Lake, the Wildcats return to East High where they prepare a stage production of “High School Musical 3: Senior Year.” But plans are disrupted when Principal Gutierrez announces that Disney has decided to make the long-awaited “High School Musical 4: The Reunion” movie on location at their beloved high school.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 is a great new season to add to the previous three. The series features many returning characters that are known and loved, as well as some new additions to the cast.” Madeleine H. adds, “I love High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4. It’s filled with engaging content and storylines that keeps you hooked. The characters and themes are easy to enjoy and understand, especially if you are a High School Musical fan and even if you are new to the series.”  See their full reviews below.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 is a great new season to add to the previous three. The series features many returning characters that are known and loved, as well as some new additions to the cast.

Season 4 has the East High students putting on a production of High School Musical 3: Senior Year. However things take a twist when it’s revealed by a famous couple that they, along with some of the original cast of the High School Musical trilogy are going to be making High School Musical 4 right in the East High School. With tensions brewing and the movie crew taking over the school, the East High students are in for a wild ride this season. 

The twists and turns that happen throughout this season are amazingly captivating. Every time I think things can’t get crazier, they do. The relationship between Ricky (Joshua Bassett) and Gina (Sofia Wylie) is very cute and one of the best parts of this season. Actually all of the relationship and friendship dynamics in the show are very cute and scripted. Another cool part of this season is the return of lots of alumni from the original series, including Corbin Bleu, Lucas Grabeel and the legendary Alyson Reed. The whole cast excels in their performances of their characters — the dynamics of the various relationships are well defined and make sense. For example the relationship between characters Ashlyn (Julia Lester) and Maddox (Saylor Bell Cruda) starts as a platonic friendship with lots of texting yet seems to be developing into more. 

The show is filmed again at the iconic East High School, which is an appealing part of the series that we all relate to now. One of my all-time favorite parts of this season is the creation of an entirely fake show called Mark and Spark with its own intro and theme song.  A new character, Mack (Mathew Sato), comes to East High to star in High School Musical 4 and Mark and Spark is the show that made him famous when he was young.  The show features many revised versions of Disney songs such as Now or Never from High School Musical 3 as well as lots of new original songs that are very catchy.  One of my favorites is the song in episode one that Ricky and Gina write together about their relationship.  Other returning actors include Dara Reneé, Julia Lester, Frankie Rodriguez, Kate Reinders, Liamani Segura and many more.

The message of this season is to be in the moment and don’t get caught up in the past. It is a continuing message throughout the entire series.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. The new season releases all episodes August 9, 2023 on Disney+.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4
By Madeleine H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I love High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4. It’s filled with engaging content and storylines that keep you hooked. The characters and themes are easy to enjoy and understand, especially if you are a High School Musical fan and even if you are new to the series.

The new series joins the East High drama club’s return from a hectic summer camp when things take an unexpected turn. The original cast of High School Musical, the movie, arrives to introduce a new movie idea with the East High drama club included in the cast. The drama club will also stage an adaptation of one of the HSM films. The plot moves quickly and is fun and easy to follow with some unexpected surprises along the way. Each episode recaps the previous storyline and keeps it going with new twists, subplots and characters that make them easy to watch and watch again. 

The camera work with smooth zooms and clear focus on the actors enhances the viewing experience. I love how the costumes match the vibe of average teens, featuring popular brands and fresh styles. I appreciate the attention to detail with the set design; they truly reflect high schoolers rooms from the neat and organized to the truly messy. I couldn’t help but enjoy the music. The background music really sets the mood and moves the story along.  But it is the cast’s songs that really tell the story with well-rounded lyrics and fun-to-listen-to melodies.  I really enjoyed the harmonies of the Halloween special; full of fun and a great surprise to start off the first episode of the season—an excellent beat. The new main character Gina (Sofia Wylie) shows a deep emotional side while remaining strong and confident. I enjoy how relatable her character is.  The scriptwriter did a strong job with fast-moving dialogue that is witty, complex and heartfelt. The writers create a series that entertains, with a story inside of a story, without being confusing. My favorite part is when Gina meets Mark (Matthew Sato) her childhood crush and her current boyfriend Ricky (Joshua Bassett) jealously and comically tries to prove he’s better than him.

The message of this season is about taking things slowly, not rushing into decisions, and figuring things out calmly.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Season 4 releases August 9, 2023 on Disney+.

Based on the unbelievable, inspiring true story of a team of underdogs – a struggling, working-class gamer, a failed former race car driver, and an idealistic motorsport exec – who risk it all to take on the most elite sport in the world.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “A scintillating, exhilarating watch, Gran Turismo will hold your attention from start to finish with its well-written script, deep characters, and detailed and immersive graphics… Gran Turismo promotes resilience. Every time Jann fails, Jack Salter (David Harbour), his trainer, pushes him to overcome the failure, get up, dust himself off, and move on to the next race.” See his full review below.

Gran Turismo
by Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

A scintillating, exhilarating watch, Gran Turismo will hold your attention from start to finish with its well-written script, deep characters, and detailed and immersive graphics.

The film follows Jann Mardenborough (Archie Madekwe), a teen from Cardiff, Wales, who’s obsessed with the video game Gran Turismo. Jann’s family doesn’t really understand his passion and worries about him, especially since he dropped out of university because of his dream to be a racecar driver. When Jann is selected as one of 10 kids worldwide to compete in Nissan’s GT Academy for a shot to be a professional racer, he must face tragedies, love, deceit, and so much more on the path to glory.

The cast shines in this film. Archie Madekwe as Jann Mardenborough captures the emotions of a teen with big dreams and the fire inside him to pursue them. He comes across as emotionless in the first few scenes but warms up into his character—by the climax, you’re sure to be rooting for Mardenborough.

My other favorite character is David Harbour as Jack Salter, a tough character to play. He’s a typical Hollywood coach, aggressive but a bit jaded because of his previous experience in racing. Over the course of the film, he warms up, which is where Harbour shines; the transformation from a brooding middle-aged has-been to a kind but fiery coach is spellbinding.

The screenplay by Jason Hall and Zach Baylin enhances the film massively, as do the cinematography and graphics, as well as the monumental score by Lorne Balfe and Andrew Kawczynski. In every racing scene, you feel like you’re in the car with Jann; my jaw was clenched throughout every hairpin turn. When the lights go green at the beginning of every race, the whole theater vibrates with the sound of the engine starting up.

Gran Turismo promotes resilience. Every time Jann fails, Jack Salter (David Harbour), his trainer, pushes him to overcome the failure, get up, dust himself off, and move on to the next race. Interestingly, Salter starts off in the film by not believing in Jann or any of the other kids in the GT Academy. Jann’s performance turns Salter into his most ardent supporter. Herein lies another message: proving your detractors wrong. Salter’s belief in always doing the right thing puts him at odds with Nissan marketing executive Danny Moore (Orlando Bloom), but is another great takeaway.

And of course, the core of the film is about achieving your dreams, no matter how unattainable they seem; when fate, fortune, and prowess align, you will find success. Parents should be aware of scenes with slightly foul language, one kissing scene, and one scene where kids drink and hang out in an industrial area and then have to run from the police.

I give Gran Turismo 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Gran Turismo releases in theaters on August 11, 2023.

Icelandic lawyer Kristin gets drawn into the vortex of an international conspiracy when she receives footage of an airplane wreck, recently revealed by the melting of one of Iceland’s largest glaciers. The old German World War II plane not only brings ruthless criminals onto the scene, but also CIA director William Carr, who has been secretly trying to remove the wreck for a long time. Kristin refuses to rest until the key has been discovered that will solve the riddle of Operation Napoleon.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critics Eshaan M. comments, “Operation Napoleon is a great film for fans of mysteries and international intrigue. Its interesting plot shines, thanks to stellar cinematography and despite a rough screenplay and sometimes wooden performances from the cast.” See his full review below.

Operation Napoleon
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Operation Napoleon is a great film for fans of mysteries and international intrigue. Its interesting plot shines, thanks to stellar cinematography and despite a rough screenplay and sometimes wooden performances from the cast.

Operation Napoleon follows Icelandic lawyer Kristín (Vivian Ólafsdóttir), who is drawn into an international conspiracy and falsely implicated in a murder after her brother finds a Nazi plane atop the Vatnajokull Glacier. Now she must unravel the history behind the conspiracy, codenamed Operation Napoleon by the CIA, and escape U.S. agents tracking her down.

As with many Nordic films, the style of acting in Operation Napoleon is very understated. This does not do the film too many favors when it comes to scenes of life and death, in which the characters struggle to emote and to immerse the viewers in each scene.  The editing and cinematography are highlights — sets are believable; the color correction is consistently cold (to do justice to Icelandic winters); and everything looks great. The film doesn’t slow down to breathe too frequently, which helps keep the momentum of the action going.

But the screenplay is a mixed bag; the script doesn’t provide enough detail behind many characters’ goals and ambitions, and the story waits until the end to explain the real motive behind Operation Napoleon, in a relatively awkward way. Iain Glen, who plays William Carr, and Olafur Darri, who plays Einar, are the best actors of the lot. Ólafsdóttir and her male lead counterpart Jack Fox (who plays researcher Steve Rush) both come across as one-note characters. Still, the premise of the film is interesting enough to keep you watching.

Operation Napoleon promotes honor and the pursuit of truth.

I give Operation Napoleon 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Operation Napoleon releases in theaters and on demand on August 11, 2023.

The Slumber Party depicts the hilarious aftermath of a sleepover birthday party hypnotism gone wrong as best friends Megan and Paige, along with soon-to-be step-sister Veronica, wake up with absolutely no memory of the night before. Now they must retrace their steps to find missing birthday girl Anna Maria and explain why there’s a flock of baby ducks in the bathtub, what happened to Megan’s eyebrow, and why she’s wearing unattainable hottie Jake Ramirez’s signature black hoodie.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Hanadie K. comments, “I love The Slumber Party. It is a heartwarming Disney film that brilliantly captures the essence of teenage friendships and the journey of self-discovery. With its enchanting storyline and captivating moments, the movie celebrates the power of friendship while encouraging viewers to break free from insecurities, making it a genuinely empowering cinematic experience.” Giana N. adds, “Sure you have been to a slumber party before, but trust me you have never been to one like this. This film has a great message that anybody no matter what age they are, can take away. This movie is fun, enjoyable, and it kept me wondering throughout the whole movie.” See their full reviews below.

The Slumber Party
By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love The Slumber Party. It is a heartwarming Disney film that brilliantly captures the essence of teenage friendships and the journey of self-discovery. With its enchanting storyline and captivating moments, the movie celebrates the power of friendship while encouraging viewers to break free from insecurities, making it a genuinely empowering cinematic experience.

The storyline follows best friends Megan (Darby Camp), Anna Maria (Valentina Herrera) and Paige (Emmy Liu-Wang) at a sleepover celebrating Anna Maria’s birthday before high school begins. However, things take an unexpected turn when Anna Maria’s soon-to-be stepsister is included, causing tensions among the girls. The night takes a magical twist when the party entertainer, Mesmer, hypnotizes them and leads them on a hilarious and life-changing adventure that makes them put aside their self-consciousness and embrace their true selves.

This heartwarming Disney film is a delightful and empowering experience for youth and family audiences that offer valuable life lessons and an enchanting adventure. The Slumber Party weaves a captivating tale of friendship and self-discovery through the remarkable performances of Megan, Anna Maria and Paige. The film’s nostalgic sets and locations immerse the audience in the world of teenage camaraderie; while the imaginative costumes, complemented by an impressive soundtrack, add depth to the characters. Mesmer’s hypnotic scenes and seamless special effects contribute a touch of magic, all masterfully directed. A standout moment is when the girls steal a hedgehog car float, showcasing youthful rebellion and friendship, leaving viewers exhilarated. The Slumber Party delivers an enchanting cinematic experience, celebrating the power of friendship and the joy of embracing one’s true self. The film is uplifting and leaves viewers with a heartwarming feeling at the end, reminding us that true friendships and self-acceptance can lead to extraordinary and magical adventures.

The message of The Slumber Party is about the power of friendship, self-discovery and embracing one’s true self as the girls learn to break free from their insecurities and support each other through the challenges of adolescence. There are no concerning elements present in the movie, making it a delightful and family-friendly film.

I give The Slumber Party 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases July 27, 2023 on Disney Channel and July 28 on Disney+.

The Slumber Party
By Giana N., Age 12, KIDSFIRST! Film Critic

Sure you have been to a slumber party before, but trust me you have never been to one like this. This film has a great message that anybody no matter what age they are, can take away. This movie is fun, enjoyable, and it kept me wondering throughout the whole movie. So sit back, relax, and enjoy The Slumber Party.

This film is about Megan (Darby Camp), Anna Marie (Valentina Herrera), Paige (Emmy Liu-Wang), and Veronica (Alex Cooper Cohen) who have a slumber party for Anna Marie’s birthday. Anna Marie wants to get her mind off of her dad’s wedding so to help her live without thinking, she hires a hypnotist. After waking up with no memory of what happened last night, they can’t seem to find out where Anna Marie is. The friends have to follow clues to try to where Anna Marie is.

An aspect of the film that I really enjoy is the comedy. All the characters in this film have such a great sense of humor which keeps you laughing the whole time. The audience can relate to many of the characters because they are going through real life situations. For example, Anna Marie’s dad is getting remarried and she is not happy about it. She doesn’t want to accept that he is moving on and this is a topic that many kids can relate to. My favorite character is Megan because she has a good sense of humor and I enjoyed her character development. Megan is afraid to try new things and to put herself out there. But with the help of her friends she is able to push past her anxiety of trying different things.

The message of The Slumber Party is that trying something new may not be easy but sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone. And who knows you may even enjoy trying something new. This film is completely appropriate and is a great movie to watch with the family in your free time.

I give The Slumber Party 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 12. This film is out now and you can find it on Disney+. Be sure to check it out!

After years of being sheltered from the human world, the Turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers through heroic acts. Their new friend April O’Neil helps them take on a mysterious crime syndicate, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jude A. comments, “After a long absence from the big screen, Seth Rogan successfully revived the beloved franchise of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with his new and authentic-style film that veers away from the look of its predecessors…” Valerie R. adds, “If you’re looking for a humorous and family-friendly film to go see this summer, this is just the film for you…” Carter P. contributes, “I love that this movie really explores the youthful side of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and that they add depth to each of the characters.” Mikella G. adds, “I really enjoy the style of animation in this film. Every animated detail, from the design of the streets, to the small food items, all contributes to the vibe and aesthetic of the film.” Katherine S. wraps it up with, “This animated rendition of everyone’s favorite turtles is “oozing” with distinctive and eye-catching graphics and upbeat music.” See their full reviews below.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

After a long absence from the big screen, Seth Rogan successfully revived the beloved franchise of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with his new and authentic-style film, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.

The movie veers away from the look of its predecessors with a fresh art style that combines 2D and 3D animation, resembling Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse films. On top of that, the film is the brainchild of “permanent teenager” Seth Rogan, who is a comedic genius. Rogan’s more age-appropriate humor featured within the film will have audiences belly-laughing the majority of the time.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have always struggled with being accepted. Ever since birth, they have been outcasts. After being raised while hidden away within the sewers of New York City, the turtles start hoping for a shot at a normal teenage life. They come to believe that the only way for them to be accepted is to share their own heroic story with the world. This encourages them to investigate and stop the local evil-doer, Superfly (Ice Cube), and his band of mutant misfits.

Many modern-day movies and TV shows often miss the mark when trying to portray the authentic experience of being a teenager in this day and age. However, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem hits that mark spot on. The language and whole dynamic between the turtles is incredibly accurate for what it means to be a teenager today, and most likely will give young-adult audiences more of a laugh because of this hysterical and relatable portrayal. It’s clear that the star-studded cast really respects the material and just has fun with it all, especially Paul Rudd as Mondo Gecko, who, quite frankly, steals the show.

The large theme of the film is acceptance, while teaching the moral that in order to truly be accepted, you just have to be yourself. It also teaches the importance of brotherhood, and the significance of simply watching out for your own. It is rated PG, which definitely is appropriate rating as it has its fair share of action, crude humor and mild language. Any intensity is often balanced out with little jokes that keep the mood light and enjoyable.

I give Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can find Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem flipping into theaters on August 2, 2023. Make sure to check it out!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
By Valerie R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

If you’re looking for a humorous and family-friendly film to go see this summer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is just the film for you.

The story begins with brothers Leonardo (Nicolas Cantu), Donatello (Micah Abbey), Raphael (Brady Noon) and Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr.) who try to live normal teenage lives, despite having an overprotective father who tries to keep them safe and hidden away from the dangerous humans. They meet a human girl named April (Ayo Edebiri) who helps them prevent the evil villain Superfly (Ice Cube) from killing all humans and mutating every animal on earth, and taking over the world. In return, April learns to accept herself as she also struggles to fit in.

The comedic timing of the characters is my favorite thing about this film. The jokes and references had me laughing out loud. And I love how this film relates to not only the younger generation but also to the older generation—it appeals to the perfect mix of audiences. I also like how it shows the struggles of trying to fit in as a teenager. For example, the turtle brothers are willing to defeat a villain to be accepted by humans. I also really enjoy the visual effects. For example, during a fighting scene, the fire and explosions are absolutely spectacular. The animation and character designs are also worth mentioning. I love how the mutants’ designs are crazy and abstract. My favorite personality belongs to Splinter (Jackie Chan) — Chan really brings Splinter to life and shows how a dad may feel towards his children.

The film’s message is to accept yourself for who you are— you do not need validation from others. It also reminds us that no one is “normal” and that we should accept others as well as ourselves. Please be advised there is brief profanity in this film.

I give Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem will be released in theaters August 2, 2023.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 11

I love Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.  The film is laugh-out-loud funny and includes a powerful message about acceptance.

The film tells the story of how, after years of being sheltered from the human world, the turtle brothers set out to win the hearts of New Yorkers and be accepted as normal teenagers through heroic acts. Their new friend April O’Neil (Ayo Edebiri) helps them take on a mysterious crime group, but they soon get in over their heads when an army of mutants is unleashed upon them. 

I love that this movie really explores the youthful side of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and that they add depth to each of the characters.  It works so well that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are teenagers, and that teenagers voice them.  Raphael (Brady Noon) has a temper; Leonardo (Nicolas Cantu) just wants to be a good leader and do what is right; Donatello (Micah Abbey) is super smart, and Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr.) is fun and carefree.  They could not have picked a better group of boys to voice these turtles.  The writing is so smart—the boys really get to act like teens and say things teens would say. The boys also recorded all their lines together, which I think was so good for the overall chemistry of the characters.  The animation and style of this film is phenomenal, and the visuals are stunning.  My favorite part is when the turtles meet April O’Neil (Ayo Edebiri) for the first time and they help get her scooter back that was stolen and the turtles have their first fight scene. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is full of comedy, heart, action and incredible animation.  I think this movie will create a whole new generation of TMNT fans.  The film teaches you to accept people, turtles, or mutants for what they are and appreciate everyone’s differences.  This is an important message everyone should understand and appreciate.

I give Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters August 2, 2023.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a touching yet thrilling animated film that brings back the iconic Ninja Turtles, and dives deeper into their lives.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem brings back this well-known group of Ninja Turtles; Leonard (Nicolas Cantu), Donatello (Micah Abbey), Raphael (Brady Noon), and Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr.). The film features their everyday lives as teenagers living in NYC. They’ve always been told to stay unseen, but that all changes when their curiosity overpowers them, and they start to realize their potential. This movie takes these Ninjas along with its audience on a fun journey, and teaches important lessons along the way.

I really enjoy the style of animation in this film. The filter used gives a dystopian modern day feel that really takes you to a different world. The warm colors and dark features all add to this, and, to me, the film feels like a realistic fantasy. Every animated detail, from the design of the streets, to the small food items, all contributes to the vibe and aesthetic of the film. Another standout in this movie is the soundtrack. Each song matches that scene, and overall has a nostalgic, freeing feeling. For example, there were some older songs that reminded me of my life. The track at the end of the movie really put everything I just watched into perspective. The entire film is relatable, and, deep down, shows the young innocence of teenagers discovering who they are.. The Ninjas embark on a mission after getting tied up with wrong people, and the execution of that plot is outstanding.  Overall, the storyline is powerful and helps to develop the message of accepting others.

The message of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is to never judge someone from the outside. Also the meaning and message of the film teaches us to accept others and always do what you know is right.

I give Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 4.5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it to ages 8 to 18. You can watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem in theaters beginning August 2, 2023.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a breath of fresh air and certainly the best Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie so far. This animated rendition of everyone’s favorite turtles is “oozing” with distinctive and eye-catching graphics and upbeat music. The movie dives deep and expands on the personalities of the characters we know and introduces new mutants that I love. Although it has a predictable plot, it’s certainly enjoyable and appealing to kids, teens and adults.

After many years of hiding from the human world in the sewers, Leonardo (Nicolas Cantu), Raphael (Brady Noon), Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr) and Donatello (Micah Abbey) want nothing more than to be accepted as normal teenagers. They find that the only way to do this is to save New York City. They plan to take down the notorious villain, Superfly (Ice Cube) and be hailed as heroes. Easy enough, right?

This movie “milks” the strengths of the franchise with an updated view. It’s great for all ages, but I feel it caters the most to a teenage audience. It uses current slang (such as “sus” and “rizz” – which made me laugh) music and pop culture. Director Seth Rogen’s creativity in this movie elevates it. Compared to other turtles seen in previous installments, the turtles here feel way more like actual teenagers. Even Master Splinter (Jackie Chan) feels more genuine and like a dad. Some of the best performances in this movie come from Nicolas Cantu (Leonardo), Brady Noon (Raphael), Micha Abbey (Donatello) and Ayo Edebiri (April O’Neil). The dynamic of the Turtle brothers is one of my favorite parts of this movie. April (Ayo Edebiri) is very realistic because she just wants acceptance and to get through high school. She is also very relatable to me personally because she is a journalist and trying to make it in the world. There is also some big star power in this movie, represented by Ice Cube, Maya Rudolph, Giancarlo Esposito, Rose Byrne, John Cena, Paul Rudd and Post Malone! Master Splinter, voiced by Jackie Chan, is my favorite character because he is so endearing. Make sure to stay for the post-credits scene. 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem displays that love for friends and family overpowers even the worst evils. This movie also deals with acceptance and bias and demonstrates the importance of not judging a book by its cover – or shell. Another idea demonstrated is don’t let the haters get to you because you can’t really hide from the world in a sewer for the rest of your life. There is some mild profanity and actions that are risky for children (like being ninjas).

I give Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This movie comes out in theaters August 2, 2023.