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Unstoppable * Moving And Inspiring — Offering An Authentic Narrative That Sheds Light On Anthony Robles’ Incredible Life

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Unstoppable is the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) who was born with one leg but whose indomitable spirit and unbreakable resolve empowered him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams. With the unwavering love and support of his devoted mother Judy (Jennifer Lopez) and the encouragement of his coaches, Anthony fights through adversity to earn a spot on the Arizona State Wrestling team. But it will demand everything he has, physically and mentally, to achieve his ultimate quest to become an NCAA Champion.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.” See her full review below.

Unstoppable
By Zoë C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.

Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) is a wrestler who’s missing a leg. He comes from a dysfunctional family as his father is abusive and comes and goes as he pleases. The story begins at Robles’ senior year of high school as he is applying to colleges while competing in many wrestling matches. He takes the daring choice to walk onto ASU, one of the top schools for wrestling. Not sure if he has what it takes or not, but with support from his siblings, Anthony makes the team and finds his place. He is faced with the match of his life as he competes with his biggest opponent his senior year of college. To Anthony this match means more than just winning, it is an opportunity for people to look up to him for who he is, not what he’s missing.

This beautiful story is accompanied by a fantastic cast. Jharrel Jerome’s portrayal of Anthony is the heart of this film. He has such great dynamics throughout the film, which truly demonstrate Anthony’s personal and emotional growth, along with his physical growth throughout his training. The stunts are done by Anthony Robles himself, making this film all that more special. Jenifer Lopez, as Anthony’s mom (Judy), also delivers a great performance. Her character shows a different side of Anthony’s story – together the two actors have a lovely chemistry which is so vital to the story.

Micheal Peña, who is a Latino Hollywood gem, plays Anthony’s coach in the film, and is great as always. Don Cheadle, who plays Anthony’s college coach, is another amazing actor who delivers a terrific performance.

On the surface, the film seems to be a typical sports drama; however director William Goldenberg allows the story to shine on its own. I love when stories show awareness of unknown heroes; I am unfamiliar with wrestling, but watching this film was so inspiring and uplifting. I also love that it goes beyond being a stereotypical story of an athlete striving to reach to the top. I also really enjoyed the cinematography by Salvatore Totino. The cinematography reflects the way Anthony feels internally – his lows are shown in varied gray and cool tones; his highs are brightly and vibrantly colored, which brings life to his story.

The film’s message is to persevere and fight for your dreams. Be aware that there are some violent scenes and strong language.

I give Unstoppable 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It is available to watch now in theaters or on Amazon Prime.

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It’s Not Too Late To Make A Difference

Saturday, December 7th, 2024

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!

We need your help to reach our final goal of $55,000. KIDS FIRST! needs your support!

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!

Sincerely,

Ranny and the KIDS FIRST! Team

@kidsfirstmedia

Ryan M. Invites you to support KIDS FIRST! Film Critics.

♬ original sound – Kidsfirstmedia – Kidsfirstmedia

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Out Of My Mind * Everyone Deserves To Be Heard And Understood, Regardless Of Their Physical Limitations

Thursday, November 21st, 2024

Melody Brooks is navigating sixth grade as a nonverbal wheelchair user who has cerebral palsy. With the help of some assistive technology and her devoted allies, Melody shows that what she has to say is more important than how she says it.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper… I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.” Ayra B. adds, “One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.” See their full reviews below.

Out Of My Mind
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper that is about family and friendship.  I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.

Born with cerebral palsy, Melody (Phoebe-Rae Taylor) is nonverbal, and she is placed in a preschool level remedial academic program where her greatest source of stimulation comes from listening to Judy Blume audiobooks. When Dr. Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) recognizes that Melody’s cognitive abilities exceed what the class offers, she advocates for Melody to join Mr. Dimming’s (Michael Chernus) class, which puts Melody on track for the life she has always dreamed of. Best of all, it puts her on a path to receive an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device so she can finally have the opportunity to make friends. But, like her journey thus far, nothing comes easy.

I really like how the film is told through Melody’s first-person narrative, with Jennifer Aniston as Melody’s voice, since Melody’s favorite TV show is Friends. Jennifer Aniston delivers a lot of heart, love, and laughter in the role, which is paired perfectly with Phoebe-Rae Taylor’s emotional performance as Melody. I was so invested in watching Melody’s dreams come true, but also feeling for her parents Chuck and Diane (Luke Kirby, Rosemarie DeWitt).  You can feel the struggle they have been fighting for their daughter’s future and wanting what is best for her.  I also love the next door neighbor, Mrs. V (Judith Light), who often helps Melody and her family.  You can feel the love Mrs. V has for Melody through the screen.  Mrs. V has some great moments and she always makes me smile. If you enjoy reading, I recommend reading the book Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.  Also available is the sequel, Out of My Heart, where Melody goes to camp for the first time and Out of My Dreams where Melody travels on an airplane for the first time and visits London.

Out of My Mind highlights the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to see the vibrant inner world of people with disabilities, particularly those who are non-verbal like Melody, who struggles with cerebral palsy but possesses a brilliant mind.

I give Out of My Mind 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  You can watch Out of My Mind on Disney beginning November 22, 2024.

Out of My Mind
By Arya B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Out of My Mind is a coming-of-age film about a 12-year-old non-verbal girl with cerebral palsy – she must stand up for herself in order to have the same rights as other kids her age.

The storyline follows Melody (Phoebe-rae Taylor) who is born with cerebral palsy and can’t walk or speak. Although she is extremely bright and understands complex topics similar to those her age, she has limited opportunities to learn more advanced things. All her life, she attended school in the same special education classroom since kindergarten because of her disability. Melody desperately wants the chance to be able to go to school in a regular classroom with other sixth graders. Although her mom Diane (Rosemarie Dewitt) and her dad Chuck (Luke Kirby) are both caring and dedicated parents, they disagree about her ability to learn and survive in a regular sixth grade classroom.

Early in the film, Melody is given the chance to attend a regular sixth grade classroom with a visiting doctor Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) at her side. Melody falls in love with the classroom experience because she can understand what is being taught and also makes a new friend Rose (Maria Nash). However, Melody cannot raise her hand to answer questions because she communicates by pointing to letters or to her surroundings. The classroom teacher, Mr. Dimming (Michael Chernus), becomes frustrated and does not want Melody there. The main plot of the film involves a Whiz Kids competition in which the four smartest kids in the class compete on a national level.

However, Mr. Dimming refuses to grade Melody’s exam because he does not think she can compete. The movie shows the various obstacles in Melody’s way: fighting to stay in the sixth-grade classroom, fighting to be on the Whiz Kids team, and fighting to make friends with other sixth graders and show them she is just as capable and interesting.  One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.

The film’s message is that people won’t know what you are capable of unless you show them. Melody is brave enough to advocate for herself being in a regular sixth grade classroom, which allows others to see she belongs there.  A few scenes demonstrate inappropriate behavior that may not be suitable for young children.

I give Out of My Mind 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Out of My Mind when it releases on Disney+ on November 22, 2024.

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A Matching Gift Opportunity – Up to $25,000

Friday, August 23rd, 2024

Dear Friends,

A Matching Gift Opportunity: I am thrilled to announce a $25,000 matching gift to KIDS FIRST! This means every dollar you donate will be doubled, up to $25,000.

The Coalition for Quality Children’s Media (CQCM), home to the KIDS FIRST! Film Critic program and KIDS FIRST! Film Festival, is seeking your support to bridge a critical funding gap between now and the end of the year.

We have a matching opportunity!  An anonymous donor will match your donation, up to $25,000.  This means your gift will have twice the impact on empowering young media consumers.

Since 1991, KIDS FIRST! has been at the forefront of media literacy, empowering young people to become discerning media consumers. Our unique approach centers on the voices of children, providing them with a platform to review films as they develop essential life skills. We have a team of 65 kids, ages 9 through 22, who attend press screenings, press junkets and film premieres. They review the latest films rated PG13 or younger and interview celebrities. Their reviews reach over 5 million people every week through the KIDS FIRST! website, blogs, social media and partnerships with like-minded publications. As one alumna, Samantha Marcus, recently told us:

“I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of California, San Diego with a BA inInternational Business. My journey toward the entertainment industry began with a pivotal role at KIDS FIRST! in 2016, where I worked as a radio show host and film critic. This rewarding experience provided me with a unique glimpse into the entertainment world, sparking my passion for marketing and business within this vibrant field. Witnessing Ranny Levy’s remarkable leadership and success at KIDS FIRST! deeply inspired me, positively shaping my professional path, encouraging me to find my voice and make the world a better place. 

Additionally, KIDS FIRST! curates a collection of indie and student films that we provide to film festivals, children’s museums and others that host screenings for youth and families. We have 30+ partners all across the US, plus 4 international partners in Ukraine, Pakistan, Uganda and India. These festivals focus on deep cultural, environmental and sociological issues such as environmental solutions, cross-cultural understanding, and empowering marginalized communities. Our festival screenings will reach over 500,000 kids and parents in 2025.

The young people we work with are truly remarkable. They aren’t just talking about making a difference; they’re doing it. I thought that you would resonate with the goals of this organization and be honored to help support its cause.

Become a partner!  Help us double our impact!  Donate today and have your gift matched, up to $25,000 at https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal. Alternatively, you can send a check to the address below.

Your donation supports:

  • KIDS FIRST! Film Critics: Empowering young voices, reaching millions.
  • KIDS FIRST! Film Festival: Inspiring change through film, reaching half a million.
  • Education: Training the next generation of media critics and advocates.

With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

SKIDS FIRST! Team

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KIDS FIRST! Needs Your Support

Tuesday, August 13th, 2024

Dear Friends,

For 33 years, KIDS FIRST! has been at the forefront of empowering young people to become critical media consumers. Our programs equip kids and their parents with the tools to discern age-appropriate content and make informed choices.

@kidsfirstmedia

Help support KIDS FIRST. Make a donation at https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirst global

♬ original sound – Kidsfirstmedia

Central to our mission is the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program. Our team of 65 dedicated young reporters, ages 9 to 22, immerse themselves in the world of film, attending press screenings, junkets, and red carpet events. They review the latest PG-13 and under-rated films, interview celebrities, and share their insights with over 5 million people through our website, social media, and partner publications.

Today, we are at a critical junction. To sustain and grow these impactful programs, we need your support. As we celebrate our 33rd anniversary, we’re asking for your help to fuel our mission. While our young reporters volunteer their time, our dedicated staff – responsible for training, coaching, editing, and promoting their work – requires financial support.

Another cornerstone of KIDS FIRST! is our Film Festival. We curate a collection of inspiring films that promote pro-social values, cultural understanding, environmental responsibility, and gender and racial equity. We have successfully co-hosted screenings with 30 venues across the USA and worldwide, including the Atlanta Children’s Film Festival, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Tallgrass Film Festival, Phoenix Film Festival, Peoria Film Festival plus partners in Ukraine, Pakistan, Uganda and India where we will reach over 500,000 youth and families in 2025.

Our goal is to cultivate a generation of informed and conscientious consumers. We measure our success not by awards, but by the positive impact we have on young lives. As we celebrate our 33rd Anniversary, we invite you to join us in shaping the future by making a donation of $33, $330, or $3300. https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal

Your donation supports:

  • KIDS FIRST! Film Critics: Empowering young voices, reaching millions.
  • KIDS FIRST! Film Festival: Inspiring change through film, reaching half a million.
  • Education: Training the next generation of media critics and advocates.

With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for your partnership and support.

Sincerely,

KIDS FIRST! Team

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