We’re excited to share updates on our year-end fundraising campaign. In August, we set a goal of raising $55,000, and thanks to your generous support, we’ve already reached $37,736 – which is 69% of our goal!
Your donation will directly support our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program, empowering young people to become the next generation of media leaders.
Inspiring Stories from Our Alumni
We’re thrilled to share the stories of three talented KIDS FIRST! alumni:
Ryan Rivera: A former KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Ryan’s passion for film led him to Connecticut College, where he’s actively involved in award-winning film projects.
Talia Jacnuk: Talia’s experience with KIDS FIRST! ignited her love for filmmaking. She’s currently pursuing her passion at USC and working on various media projects.
Carlee Spagnolo: A recent KIDS FIRST! alumna, Carlee is studying Environmental Science and hopes to combine her love for film with her passion for environmental issues.
At KIDS FIRST!, we don’t just train young minds – we launch careers. We transform enthusiastic tweens and teens into media professionals – future journalists, YouTubers, influencers, and beyond.
But it’s more than just titles. We give them real-world experience through interviews with industry talent, both on and off-screen. From filmmakers to actors, they learn the ropes and prepare for their future, whether it’s in entertainment or not.
The skills they gain are invaluable: meeting deadlines, crafting clear communication, and captivating audiences online and in person. These are skills that benefit them in any field they choose.
We need your support!
Your contribution helps us continue this crucial work. We’re nearing our year-end goal, which unlocks matching donations from generous supporters.
Every contribution counts! Whether online, through PayPal, Venmo, or a mailed check, your generosity makes a difference. Donate now: https://fnd.us/kidsfirst?ref=sh_bCo1e4
Thank you for believing in the power of young voices. Wishing you a joyful fall and holiday season!
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical Moana 2 reunites Moana (Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gavin S. comments, “I thoroughly enjoyed Moana 2 for its breathtaking animation and compelling storytelling. The vibrant visuals and the emotionally resonant narrative make it a worthy sequel to the original.” Zoe C. adds, “The storyline feels like a recreation of the first film just with better animation, new characters, and new songs. However, what makes this film so enjoyable to watch is all its other aspects.” Junior R. adds, “Moana 2 is one of the best movies I have ever seen. If you liked the first Moana, you’re going to definitely LOVE this one. It has even more action, cooler songs, and new characters that will make you laugh.” Avani M. adds, “With a new outfit, boat snack, crew and a little sister, Moana 2 is a fantastic movie with great animation, an awesome storyline and important messages.” Sydney S. wraps it up with, “Moana 2 is a new and exciting journey for Moana. This sequel brings her liveliness and bravery back on the big screen, while also representing Pacific Islanders and making them feel seen.” See their full reviews below.
Moana 2
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
I thoroughly enjoyed Moana 2 for its breathtaking animation and compelling storytelling. The vibrant visuals and the emotionally resonant narrative make it a worthy sequel to the original.
The film follows Moana (Auli‘i Cravalho) as she embarks on an epic journey three years after her first adventure. Prompted by a mysterious call from her ancestors, she ventures into uncharted waters alongside Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and a diverse crew of seafarers. Together, they navigate treacherous oceans and uncover long-lost realms, confronting challenges that test their courage and unity. The stakes are higher; the landscapes are grander; and Moana’s determination shines brighter than ever.
What truly sets Moana 2 apart is its rich combination of music, character development, and cultural authenticity. The soundtrack composed by Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foaʻi, Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear blends contemporary styles with traditional Polynesian rhythms, resulting in songs that are both memorable and deeply meaningful.
Auli‘i Cravalho delivers a stunning vocal performance that adds depth to Moana’s journey, while Dwayne Johnson brings humor and heart again, as Maui.
The film also introduces new characters, with actors Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, David Fane, Hualālai Chung, Awhimai Fraser, and Gerald Ramsey joining the cast and bringing fresh dynamics and humor to the story.
Beyond the music and characters, the animation is stunning, capturing the majesty of Oceania with dazzling colors and intricate details. The filmmakers clearly respect and celebrate the cultural heritage they portray, immersing the audience in a world that feels authentic and alive.
At its heart, Moana 2 carries a powerful message: the importance of perseverance and staying connected to your roots while embracing the unknown.
Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on November 27, 2024. Be sure to check it out.
Moana 2
By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
Moana 2 has visually mesmerizing visuals, great animation, and a lovely soundtrack. I saw the first Moana when I was eight, so I was very excited to see what this sequel would bring to the table.
The film opens with a call from Moana’s ancestors warning her that if she doesn’t find the lost island of Motufetū, the story of her people would end. Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) recruits people from her island to sail the seas with her to find Nalo, a power hungry God who believes humans can achieve anything when they are united, which threatens him. Nalo separated all of the people of the sea and hid Motufetū so that he could never be destroyed. Hesitant, Moana takes on this scary journey for the sake of her people.
This sequel doesn’t really continue the story from the first film, instead it re-tells the same tale with new characters. It follows the same formula as the first Moana: a call from Moana’s ancestors, obstacles in reaching the main antagonist, and the final battle. The storyline is pretty underwhelming; it feels like a recreation of the first film just with better animation, new characters, and new songs.
However, what makes this film so enjoyable to watch is all its other aspects. The immersive animation is absolutely enchanting. All of the colors and textures are spectacular; I didn’t expect anything less from Disney. The score by Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i is also perfect. The soundtrack stuck in my head and raised the bar from the first film’s score. The introduction of new characters is also a strong point. Moana’s new little sister Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda) is just adorable. And the new villain, Matangi (Awhimai Fraser), creates some mystery and suspense in the plot. Auli’i Cravalho, as Moana, and Dwayne Johnson, as Maui, still have their powerful duo dynamic. With all these strong aspects this film has so much potential to continue the beautiful story the first film left us with, but unfortunately the plot makes this sequel subpar.
This film explores themes of community, overcoming adversity, and shows how when people come together, they can achieve anything.
Moana 2 gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. You can watch Moana 2 in theatres beginning November 27, 2024.
Moana 2
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10
Moana 2 is one of the best movies I have ever seen. If you liked the first Moana, you’re going to definitely LOVE this one. It has even more action, cooler songs, and new characters that will make you laugh. I definitely had the most awesome time watching this film.
In this film, Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) is older, mature, and more adventurous. After getting a call from her ancestors, Moana enlists a new crew Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo) and Kele (Daniel Fane) along with the help of Hei Hei (Alan Tudyk), Pua and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to embark on a dangerous journey to sail across the seas of Oceania to help save her island from a huge, powerful storm. As Moana faces new challenges, she discovers more about her ancestor and her true destiny!
The cast of characters is fabulous! Some of the original characters return in this sequel. Auli-i Cravalho Maui reprises the lead role. Maui is back, as himself, and his hair looks better than ever. Be ready to laugh when Maui argues with his tattoos. The new characters, Moni, Loto, Kele, and Moana’s little sister Simea have a new spice that entertains the audience the whole way through.
One of the best things about the film is its animation. The ocean is even prettier this time, and is so realistic it made me want to jump into the screen and go for a swim. The island looks like a setting straight out of a postcard. Also the constellations are vibrant and look amazing in the beautiful night sky. Last but not least, I love how Moana’s hair majestically blows in the wind throughout the film. My favorite song from the film is “Beyond.” It is the most wonderful song as it makes you feel brave to undertake any adventure.
Moana 2 has a powerful message of embracing your culture and inheritance. It also emphasizes the idea that, together with others, you are stronger and can do anything. Moana embraces the wonderful ocean life and that shows throughout the movie. Be aware that there are a few scary creatures that might frighten younger audiences.
Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Moana 2 opens in theaters November 27, 2024.
Moana 2
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14
Moana 2 is a new and exciting journey for Moana. This sequel brings her liveliness and bravery back on the big screen, while also representing Pacific Islanders and making them feel seen.
The story follows Moana receiving an unexpected call from her ancestors telling her to restore an island that will connect all the people across the ocean. This journey is more risky than last time — will she and her crew make it?
The main characters are Moana (Auli’i Cravalho), Maui (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo), Kele (David Fane), Heihei (Alan Tudyk) and Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda). We see the return of many beloved characters, with the addition of some new ones. It’s fun to see some former characters pop up at random times. However, I question whether the addition of so many new characters is necessary — it almost feels forced. The playful connection between Moana and Maui remains the same, but even at a deeper level as they have matured. In terms of the music, it is very upbeat and energetic, and Moana’s voice has improved so much. It’s stronger and has so much emotion, which adds to the plot, showing us how strongly Moana feels about taking the ancestor’s call.
The animation is wonderful; it truly captures the beauty of the islands with its vibrant colors and captures the characters’ emotions through their expressive faces. The plot is enjoyable, despite some holes. It’s a creative take on Moana’s journey, not only to the ocean, but inside herself. She knows the risk of taking this journey, and she especially doesn’t want to leave her little sister, Simea. But, she makes a difficult decision and ends up trying to restore the people. This could be a symbol of unity. My favorite part is the beginning, when the villagers are shown – it reminds me of the first movie and is so beautiful because it represents the Pacific Islanders’ culture.
The film’s message is that there’s always another way to solve a problem. A goddess tells Moana that, even when it seems impossible, there’s always another way. This gives Moana the motivation to push through and be strong. It also emphasizes the importance of community and sticking together.
Moana 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Moana 2 comes out in theaters November 27, 2024.
Moana 2
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12
With a new outfit, boat snack, crew and a little sister, Moana 2 is a fantastic movie with great animation, an awesome storyline and important messages.
Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) goes on an epic journey as a wayfinder with a new crew, consisting of engineer Loto (Rose Matafeo), historian Moni (Hualalai Chung) and master farmer Kele (David Fane). This time, she goes in search of an ancient island in order to unite all the people of other islands like her ancestor Tautai Vasa (Gerald Ramsey) tried to do.
The animation is beautiful and lively with vivid colors. The ocean is clear and bright, with unlimited shades of blue. The creatures are a contrasting blend of color and darkness. Like the first film, the music is inspiring and exceptional. Sung by many powerful voices the songs are catchy and filled with emotion and lessons. Moana 2 introduces many new characters such as villagers Loto, Moni, and Kele who join her on her voyage and work together to save the future of their people. They bring a sense of loyalty and commitment to Moana as they navigate the seas together. Auli’i Cravalho delivers an outstanding performance as Moana. She portrays the character so well – you can hear the emotion in her voice when she is feeling down, but also her power when fighting and expressing her love for her younger sister. Her singing is flawless, powerful and moving.
Dwayne Johnson is amazing as Maui because you can hear the humor, heart and motivation when he is talking with Moana. Allen Tudyk reprises an even funnier voice to Hei Hei. Awhimai Fraser plays another new character, Matangi, who sings a beautiful song called “Get Lost” about how when one’s path seems impossible, there is always another way. Moana’s grandma plays a key role in her life. She helps Moana when she is conflicted between leaving her island or keeping their people alive.
Moana 2 has so many great themes starting with: we never stop choosing who we are. Other people will guide us, but we are the ones who ultimately choose our own future. It also shows us that there is always another way to do something and that you have to trust the process even when it is risky. Be warned that some creatures might be a bit scary for younger audiences.
Moana 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on November 27, 2024.
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The childhood adventures of the famous Boonie Bear brothers Briar and Bramble, along with their friends; Vick, Tiki, Herbert, Warren, Violet, Luna Loo, and all the rest. At Pine Tree Kindergarten, under the guidance of the wise owl Miss Olivia and the outdoorsy Coach Mack, the cubs learn valuable life lessons and have a ton of fun along the way.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Junior R. comments, “If you love cartoons about cute animals that go on wild adventures, then Boonie Cubs might be the perfect show for you. I found myself engaged, intrigued, and happy during each episode… The animation is vibrant and detailed, creating a work that feels alive and magical. The forest isn’t just the backdrop for the show; it feels like its own character…” Tiana S. adds, “Boonie Cubs is a bear-y cute film for younger audiences! It has fun animation, an enjoyable storyline, and adorable characters. Viewers will definitely be tuned in while watching and get to learn important lessons at a young age.” IvyJoy C. wraps it up with, “Vick and all of the animals, including four bears, two monkeys, a squirrel, a badger, a mole and an owl, are incredibly voiced by just four actors – Siobhan Lumsden, Joseph S. Lambert, Gene Hobes and Nichalia Schwartz – who uniquely bring each character to life. The graphics are so vibrant – it looks as though they are high definition photos that are turned into animation.”
Boonie Cubs
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10
If you love cartoons about cute animals that go on wild adventures, then Boonie Cubs might be the perfect show for you. I found myself engaged, intrigued, and happy during each episode.
Boonie Cubs is a TV series about two bear cub brothers, Briar (Nichalia Schwartz) and Bramble (Joseph S. Lambert), who live in the forest and have all kinds of expeditions with their friends Vick, Babu, Tiki, Coach Mack, and several others. Together, Briar and Bramble are hilarious! Briar is the smarter, adventurous, and more responsible brother, while Bramble relies on his brother for help, and is more laid-back and loves to eat. The forest friends all attend Pine Tree Kindergarten and the wise owl, Miss Olivia teaches them math. They also learn valuable lessons along the way while having fun in the forest.
There are four seasons of Boonie Cubs. Each episode is around 25 minutes long, so it can easily hold the attention of younger audiences. The animation is vibrant and detailed, creating a work that feels alive and magical. The forest isn’t just the backdrop for the show; it feels like its own character, full of surprises and beauty. Even the bark on the trees has such a strong texture. The detail in the character’s faces really gives them each their own special personality. My personal favorite character is the squirrel, Warren, with his emerald green bright eyes. Boonie Cubs provides interesting facts about animals and nature. My favorite fun fact is how fireflies glow. Did you know they need oxygen to light their light? The more oxygen they have, the brighter their light is. I commend the director, Leon Ding, for balancing humor, adventure, and heartfelt lessons in this show, creating a series that entertains while teaching kids about teamwork, kindness, and protecting the environment.
What stands out most about Boonie Cubs is how it combines humor, adventure, and meaningful life lessons all in one series. Together the friends at Pine Tree Kindergarten learn about emotions, nature, courage, friendship, and other important social skills. The dynamic between the characters also sets the series apart. The sibling relationship between Briar and Bramble is relatable for kids with brothers or sisters. They argue and tease each other, but they always come through for one another when it matters most.
I give Boonie Cubs 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. Boonie Cubs is available now on Peacock and other streaming outlets! Go check it out.
Boonie Cubs
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14
Boonie Cubs is a bear-y cute film for younger audiences! It has fun animation, an enjoyable storyline, and adorable characters. Viewers will definitely be tuned in while watching and get to learn important lessons at a young age.
Boonie Cubs is a show for elementary school kids that follows Briar (Nichalia Schwartz) and Bramble (Siobhan Lumsden) on their journeys throughout their forest along with their friends such as Vick. They all go on small adventures and learn lessons along the way.
In Season 1, Episode 1, Briar steals Vick’s ax which causes a small feud between the two as Vick tries to get it back. After a while, Briar is then taught the lesson of not taking things from others. Later on in the episode, Briar doesn’t have anyone to play a game with because everyone else wants to play with Vick’s car. But then Briar is again advised and told to maybe join them! It’s a cute episode of life lessons and handling situations.
The main characters are Briar and Brimble as well as Vick, Miss Olivia (Nichalia Schwartz), and the other forest friends! I think that this is such an interesting series considering it’s a Chinese animated series that is dubbed in English for a US audience. While you can tell that it was originally recorded in a different language, the voice actors’ performances are very good and succeed in making the show appealing. I’m not the audience for this show; it is definitely a show for younger viewers because of how the story develops. It’s not too much of an entertainment show, as it’s honestly made to inform little kids of situations and the life lessons to be learned from them. But of course, it will keep little kids entertained and watching.
There are many messages to get from this show. Season 1, Episode 1 in particular focuses on lessons such as not taking what’s not yours without permission, going in with others instead of pulling them away, and even stepping out of your comfort zone. This is definitely a cute show for parents to put on when they want some free time from their little ones.
I give Boonie Cubs 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 2 to 8. You can stream Boonie Bears on Peacock now!
Boonie Cubs
By IvyJoy C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12
The animated series, Boonie Cubs is fun, full of great lessons, and is very pleasing to watch. I really like it and can’t wait to see more episodes.
The show’s first episode is divided into two fun stories. The first story introduces us to a boy named Vick who chases a thieving bear, Briar, through the forest. Briar has stolen Vick’s ax and he wants it back. Vick finds himself in Briar’s world, which is a magical forest with talking animals. After getting his ax back, Vick and his new friends play together and learn lessons. The second story focuses on Bramble bear who is starting his first day of kindergarten and is very scared. His teacher and his new friends include him in fun and games, and soon Bramble is at ease.
Vick and all of the animals, including four bears, two monkeys, a squirrel, a badger, a mole and an owl, are incredibly voiced by just four actors – Siobhan Lumsden, Joseph S. Lambert, Gene Hobes and Nichalia Schwartz – who uniquely bring each character to life. The graphics are so vibrant – it looks as though they are high definition photos that are turned into animation. The snow-capped mountains and the moss growing on the sides of the trees are very realistic, so are the leaves and grass which sway as if they are real. My favorite part of the first story is when Vick meets Ms. Owl. He is afraid of her but after she comforts him with a sweet song, he knows that she is a friend. In the second story, I really like that the classmates include Bramble in their games and it makes him less fearful.
The show has many lessons including: be willing to make new friends and have new experiences; stealing is wrong; it’s good to compromise; try to be brave.
I give Boonie Cubs 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8. You can watch it on Peacock and other streaming outlets now.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/931944310/f95a2bc3a6
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The 12th annual Giving Tuesday is Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Initiated in 2012 by Henry Timms at the 92nd Street Y in New York City and co-founded by the United Nations Foundation, Giving Tuesday was created as a simple idea: to encourage people to do good.
For 33 years, KIDS FIRST! has been encouraging young people to do good – for themselves and for others. Since 1991, we have been teaching kids critical viewing skills and to sharing their film reviews with other kids and adults. Rather give young people a list of suitable programs considered safe for them, they learn to make their own thoughtful media choices. After all, “smart kids make smart consumers.” With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices. https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal
In 2011, we launched KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program and created an opportunity for tweens and teens to have their voices heard about their take on the latest films and TV shows being released. More than 400 kids have participated in this program and, not only have they have shared their reviews with millions of parents, teachers, grandparents, and children worldwide, they have developed their career skills while doing it. Our alumni has spoken up about how their experiences as a KIDS FIRST! reporter influenced their career moves. Here are comments from two of them:
There are SO many positive memories I have from KIDS FIRST! My first one is when I auditioned on the DreamWorks lot and the Trolls premiere was happening that day. Seeing Ranny explain the movie and television business and hearing the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics explain how this passion changed their lives made me feel inspired, empowered and made me feel like I could achieve my dreams. Audition day changed my life and made me realize KIDS FIRST! was the key for me to discover my confidence and my true potential. (Samantha Marcus)
My time at KIDS FIRST! was the most influential period of my life. I joined when I was 13 with a speech impediment and no experience in the film industry. Thankfully, Ranny Levy took me under her wing. From exciting private screenings to unforgettable red carpet events, KIDS FIRST! gave me opportunities that I could only dream of. I learned how to be a professional presenter and a conscientious writer. My education at KIDS FIRST! was intensive but never patronizing because KIDS FIRST! sees the limitless potential in children and pushes them to be the best they can be. (Keefer Blakeslee)
As Giving Tuesday approaches, we invite you to help us “Do Good” and reach millions of parents and kids looking for guidance in their media selections. Thankfully our success is due to the generous donations from supporters like you who believe in KIDS FIRST!, the work we do, and the community we impact.
We set a goal of $55,000 for our end of year campaign and broke it into two parts; the first part was to raise $25,000, which we surpassed by $5,000. For part 2, we need to raise the last $25,000 and are asking for your support. Not just you personally, but help us spread the word to your friends and family. See if your employer makes matching gifts for donations that you make. Many do. No amount is too small or too big! If everyone that receives this newsletter made a $5 donation, that would be $225,000!
Your gifts to KIDS FIRST! make a difference. You help us change lives, engage youth in career-building activities, expand the awareness of cultural understanding, environmental responsibility and gender and racial equity.
With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
We’re excited to share updates on our year-end fundraising campaign. In August, we set a goal of raising $55,000, and thanks to your generous support, we’ve already reached $37,736 – which is 69% of our goal!
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical Moana 2 reunites Moana (Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.
The childhood adventures of the famous Boonie Bear brothers Briar and Bramble, along with their friends; Vick, Tiki, Herbert, Warren, Violet, Luna Loo, and all the rest. At Pine Tree Kindergarten, under the guidance of the wise owl Miss Olivia and the outdoorsy Coach Mack, the cubs learn valuable life lessons and have a ton of fun along the way.
If you love cartoons about cute animals that go on wild adventures, then Boonie Cubs might be the perfect show for you. I found myself engaged, intrigued, and happy during each episode.
There are four seasons of Boonie Cubs. Each episode is around 25 minutes long, so it can easily hold the attention of younger audiences. The animation is vibrant and detailed, creating a work that feels alive and magical. The forest isn’t just the backdrop for the show; it feels like its own character, full of surprises and beauty. Even the bark on the trees has such a strong texture. The detail in the character’s faces really gives them each their own special personality. My personal favorite character is the squirrel, Warren, with his emerald green bright eyes. Boonie Cubs provides interesting facts about animals and nature. My favorite fun fact is how fireflies glow. Did you know they need oxygen to light their light? The more oxygen they have, the brighter their light is. I commend the director, Leon Ding, for balancing humor, adventure, and heartfelt lessons in this show, creating a series that entertains while teaching kids about teamwork, kindness, and protecting the environment.
What stands out most about Boonie Cubs is how it combines humor, adventure, and meaningful life lessons all in one series. Together the friends at Pine Tree Kindergarten learn about emotions, nature, courage, friendship, and other important social skills. The dynamic between the characters also sets the series apart. The sibling relationship between Briar and Bramble is relatable for kids with brothers or sisters. They argue and tease each other, but they always come through for one another when it matters most.
Boonie Cubs is a bear-y cute film for younger audiences! It has fun animation, an enjoyable storyline, and adorable characters. Viewers will definitely be tuned in while watching and get to learn important lessons at a young age.
In Season 1, Episode 1, Briar steals Vick’s ax which causes a small feud between the two as Vick tries to get it back. After a while, Briar is then taught the lesson of not taking things from others. Later on in the episode, Briar doesn’t have anyone to play a game with because everyone else wants to play with Vick’s car. But then Briar is again advised and told to maybe join them! It’s a cute episode of life lessons and handling situations.
There are many messages to get from this show. Season 1, Episode 1 in particular focuses on lessons such as not taking what’s not yours without permission, going in with others instead of pulling them away, and even stepping out of your comfort zone. This is definitely a cute show for parents to put on when they want some free time from their little ones.
The animated series, Boonie Cubs is fun, full of great lessons, and is very pleasing to watch. I really like it and can’t wait to see more episodes.
Vick and all of the animals, including four bears, two monkeys, a squirrel, a badger, a mole and an owl, are incredibly voiced by just four actors – Siobhan Lumsden, Joseph S. Lambert, Gene Hobes and Nichalia Schwartz – who uniquely bring each character to life. The graphics are so vibrant – it looks as though they are high definition photos that are turned into animation. The snow-capped mountains and the moss growing on the sides of the trees are very realistic, so are the leaves and grass which sway as if they are real. My favorite part of the first story is when Vick meets Ms. Owl. He is afraid of her but after she comforts him with a sweet song, he knows that she is a friend. In the second story, I really like that the classmates include Bramble in their games and it makes him less fearful.
The show has many lessons including: be willing to make new friends and have new experiences; stealing is wrong; it’s good to compromise; try to be brave.
In 2011, we launched KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program and created an opportunity for tweens and teens to have their voices heard about their take on the latest films and TV shows being released. More than 400 kids have participated in this program and, not only have they have shared their reviews with millions of parents, teachers, grandparents, and children worldwide, they have developed their career skills while doing it. Our alumni has spoken up about how their experiences as a KIDS FIRST! reporter influenced their career moves. Here are comments from two of them:
