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Elemental spirits have held power over the human world since its inception. The relationship, however, is symbiotic. Elfame is a fairy kingdom ruled by Melisandria and it is dying, the required ritual sacrifice is late. Elspeth Moore’s family is bound to Elfame, every generation a child has been offered for sacrifice to renew Elfame’s magical energy. When Kate Richards receives a letter from her estranged great-aunt Elspeth offering a place to stay when they need it most, they gratefully accept not realizing they are being lured towards their demise.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “The Evil Fairy Queen is a tale of mischief and deception. This film has so many distinct fun features. One of my favorite parts is how the beginning of the film has a short animated intro that quickly transitions into the live-action film.” Gavin S. adds, “I thoroughly enjoyed The Evil Fairy Queen for its gripping storyline and immersive atmosphere. The film’s portrayal of the evil fairies and their sinister motives kept me on the edge of my seat.” Kira O. adds, “There is a good mix of mystery, horror and suspense to keep the plot moving forward. The Evil Fairy Queen delivers a combination of horror mixed with fantasy.” Kyla C. wraps it with, “The film’s message is to trust your loved ones and support them if they’re struggling. Violet, the youngest daughter, feels that her family is uninterested in her passion for fairies and is aware that no one believes what she’s experiencing.”  See their full reviews below.

The Evil Fairy Queen
By Avalon N, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

The Evil Fairy Queen is a tale of mischief and deception. It combines important lessons with an engaging storyline.

The story revolves around a family of four who move into the mother’s great aunt’s old farmhouse. However the house is not quite what it seems to be when they discover that a group of fairies live in the area – a group of evil fairies who need to complete an oath. Throughout the film, the mother has to protect her family from getting sacrificed by this evil clan of fairies.

This film has so many distinct fun features. One of my favorite parts is how the beginning of the film has a short animated intro that quickly transitions into the live-action film. The film is based on old European folklore rather than American fairy tales which allows the fairies to be evil and adds an interesting new element to the film. One of the coolest parts of this film is the young lead, Violet (Kitty Sudbery), who has many different scenes and she performs in all of them very beautifully and powerfully. The final thing I noticed is that the group of evil fairies is really just one big family that is looking for a way to survive – they’re just doing what’s necessary for their survival. The film was produced in the United Kingdom and therefore they use many words such as bloke, mate and mummy, which may be unfamiliar to American audiences. 

The film’s messages are that not everything is always as it seems and be careful who you trust.

I give The Evil Fairy Queen 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch it on VOD on April 16, 2024.

The Evil Fairy Queen
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I thoroughly enjoyed The Evil Fairy Queen for its gripping storyline and immersive atmosphere. The film’s portrayal of the evil fairies and their sinister motives kept me on the edge of my seat.

The story unfolds as a family is lured to a remote farmhouse by a deceitful relative, only to fall victim to malevolent fairies that require sacrifices to renew their magical life force. As tensions escalate and the family’s plight becomes increasingly dire, they must confront the dark forces that threaten their very existence.

What impresses me the most about this film is its masterful blending of horror and fantasy elements. The film’s eerie setting and chilling portrayal of the fairy creatures creates a palpable sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. Additionally, the strong performances from the cast, especially Julia Czartoryski, who plays Kate Richards, add depth and emotional resonance to the story. The special effects used to bring the evil fairies to life are impressive, adding a layer of visual richness to the film. However, there are a few moments where the CGI looks slightly unpolished and detracts from the overall immersion of the viewing experience. Nonetheless, the film’s strong narrative and compelling performances overshadow any shortcomings in the visual effects department.

The film’s message is that everything is not always as it seems.

I give The Evil Fairy Queen, 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 through 18, plus adults. This film releases April 16, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

The Evil Fairy Queen
By Kira O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The Evil Fairy Queen is an exciting movie with a very unexpected take on fairies. This film, directed by Simon Wells, is a fantasy with elements of a horror movie and plenty of surprises! 

When the Richards family receives a call from great aunt Elspeth inviting them to move to her farmhouse, Kate Richards (Julia Czartoryski) believes it could be a new beginning. But a world of danger is lurking in the woodlands surrounding the farm with sinister ties to Kate’s past. The youngest daughter, Violet (Kitty Sudbery), innocently befriends Melisandria (Hannah Harris), the Evil Fairy Queen, who wants to sacrifice Violet and Kate to preserve her reign. With help from Dillon (Luke Hunter), Kate tries to save Violet and herself from the evil clutches of Melisandria and her evil fairy sidekicks.

I like how the story is presented throughout this film! There is a good mix of mystery, horror and suspense to keep the plot moving forward. The Evil Fairy Queen delivers a combination of horror mixed with fantasy. The woodland fairies are very different from those in most childhood stories as they prefer the taste of human flesh. Fortunately, the well-lit scenes and cinematography keep the dark subject matter from feeling too scary.  Kitty Sudbery is double-cast as both Violet and a younger Kate, which I found mildly distracting, yet this movie still is enjoyable to watch. The relationships between the Richards’ family members are interesting and the subplot is that they overcome a family tragedy.

The message of The Evil Fairy Queen is to be careful who you trust as things are not always what they seem.

I give The Evil Fairy Queen 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on April 16, 2024.

The Evil Fairy Queen
By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

The Evil Fairy Queen is an engaging fantasy film that combines real and fantasy elements, as it transports us into a world of fairies!

The Evil Fairy Queen follows a family that moved from a suburban town to a large, seemingly normal house in a rural area. However, this house and the family’s experiences there are anything but normal. Something seems off from the day they arrive, when a neighbor creepily warns them of the house’s dangers. The younger daughter, Violet (Kitty Sudbery), discovers the fairy queen but doesn’t realize the dangers of keeping it a secret. Eventually, the rest of the family figures out what’s going on, but not until it’s too late and the entire family is in grave danger.

This film has strong, relatable characters that pulled me in and allowed me to connect with the storyline. The older daughter, Adelaide (Aniela Leyland), is a typical teenager while the younger daughter is still an innocent, sweet, explorative little girl. This contrast is typical for siblings, no matter what the age difference or similarity in interests. The dynamics between the family members make the film relevant and also demonstrates the character motives in the more suspenseful parts. Because this film includes many fantastical aspects, it’s important that viewers can relate to the characters, even if their situation is a bit unrealistic. With all that said, the story has some issues – there are some unclear parts of the fantasy world and various things are never explained. That makes some parts of the film slightly confusing and diminishes its overall suspense. However, the concept of the fantasy world is interesting and it’s a wonderful idea.

The film’s message is to trust your loved ones and support them if they’re struggling. Violet, the youngest daughter, feels that her family is uninterested in her passion for fairies and is aware that no one believes what she’s experiencing. The family’s refusal to believe her ends up wasting time that could have been spent trying to get out before the real danger occurs.

I give The Evil Fairy Queen 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. You can watch The Evil Fairy Queen on video on demand beginning April 16, 2024.

Food, Inc. 2 is a timely and urgent follow-up to the Oscar®-nominated documentary from directors Robert Kenner and Melissa Robledo. In the sequel, Kenner and Robledo reunite with investigative authors Michael Pollan (The Omnivore’s Dilemma) and Eric Schlosser (Fast Food Nation) to take a fresh look at our vulnerable food system. The groundbreaking Food, Inc. ignited a cultural conversation about the multinational corporations that control our food system at enormous cost to our planet, workforce, and health. FOOD, INC. 2 comes “back for seconds” to reveal how corporate consolidation has gone unchecked by our government, leaving us with a highly efficient yet shockingly vulnerable food system dedicated only towards increasing profits. Seeking solutions, the film introduces innovative farmers, food producers, workers’ rights activists, and prominent legislators such as U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Jon Tester, who are facing these companies head-on and fighting to create a more sustainable future.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Selene W. comments, “Our lives depend on healthy food. I believe it’s imperative to watch the new documentary Food, Inc. 2 to learn about our food supply system one bite at a time by watching this informative and thought-provoking film.” Sydney S. adds, “Food, Inc. 2 expands on the original Food, Inc. ideas of encouraging consumers to change the food system. Its interesting facts opened my eyes to the corrupt system that exists currently. I like that the film inspires people to solve these problems.” See their full reviews below.

Food, Inc. 2
By Selene W., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Our lives depend on healthy food. I believe it’s imperative to watch the new documentary Food, Inc. 2 to learn about our food supply system one bite at a time by watching this informative and thought provoking film.  You and your family can move forward by making choices to work toward a healthier future which is certainly my goal.      

Food, Inc. 2 is an update to 2008’s Food, Inc. which was a groundbreaking Oscar®-nominated expose on the multinational corporations that control our food supply.  There has been more consolidation in the food industry since 2008 and Food, Inc. 2 explores how our values should impact our food choices.  This documentary emphasizes the anti-trust and monopoly issues encountered in our agricultural system.  It highlights the profits of capitalism versus the sustainability of nature and how this directly affects the quality and nutrition of our food.  In addition, the movie makes the point that the agricultural labor force is essential, but is often treated as disposable.

Corporate profits have risen at the expense of both consumers and rural America’s farming communities.  There are definitely concerns for future soil and water quality which impact our food’s nutritional value as well as the effect they have on individuals and our communities.    I value the information shared by Senators Cory Booker and Jon Tester as they work to improve access to healthy food and to support our farmers.  The documentary is also interesting when it chronicles the food additives which affect our taste and metabolism.  Most other countries don’t have so many highly processed foods and the multinational corporations are looking to change that in their zeal to increase corporate profits. Perhaps there will be added cooperation with international partners on finding ways to improve nutrition and agriculture globally in the future.  I really enjoyed learning about the innovative farmers working to improve our food supply from the ground up or, in the case of a kelp farmer, by charting a new course in food supply.  I learned a great deal from all of the interviews and contributors to this project and hope that, in the future, there will be more information available to us concerning the impact on health and our healthcare system tied to nutritional and environmental concerns.

Food, Inc. was released the year I was born and this new documentary, Food, Inc. 2 will hopefully provide further food for thought for a new generation or for those who missed the original film.  There may be some viewers who feel that there is not enough differentiation between the original documentary and the new update but this makes it palatable for those of us who haven’t watched the original to understand the overview of the food industry and to inspire us so that hopefully our food supply can improve by replicating better standards and not from further consolidation. 

Food, Inc. 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  This documentary releases in theaters for special screenings on April 9, 2024 and will then be available on digital April 12, 2024. 

Food, Inc. 2
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Food, Inc. 2 expands on the original Food, Inc. ideas of encouraging consumers to change the food system. Its interesting facts opened my eyes to the corrupt system that exists currently. I like that the film inspires people to solve these problems. It doesn’t scare the viewer but provides hope for alternative solutions. It’s a topic that I resonate with.

The film follows Michael Pollan, who is known for his books that explore the socio-cultural impact of food such as The Botany of Desire and The Omnivore’s Dilemma, This documentary investigates the food industry and shows the not-so-pretty parts. Pollan interviews experts as well as people who are involved with food production and distribution personally including farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs.

Michael Pollan narrates the film. As an author and an investigative journalist he shows people and places that demonstrate how corporate food companies are hurting small businesses and the environment. Another claim he makes is that animals are not being treated humanely in food production. He brings in various people to speak about their personal experiences in the food business including Eric Schlosser, author of Fast Food Nation, US Senators Cory Booker and Jon Tester and Pat Brown, a former Stanford professor who is the founder of Impossible Foods. He states that, if we replaced cows, it could give us 30 more years before greenhouse gases rise further.

At times, there is some creative animation that demonstrates what he is discussing, but most of the film is shot in typical documentary style with lots of voice-overs and interviews. The film’s directors, Robert Kenner and Melissa Robledo, are wonderful at displaying various aspects of the food industry, including beautiful shots of sustainable farms and labs. On the other hand, farm workers are shown with less pleasing shots. My favorite part of the film is a new invention that allows goats and pigs to eat plants in a small space. I was truly shocked by the alarming facts about the food industry that are presented here. For example, a third of the greenhouse gas emissions in the world come from the food industry. That’s a lot! This is just one of many startling facts in this film.

The film’s message is that we can work together to transform the food system. The film encourages viewers to abolish factory farms, prioritize healthy foods and sustainable farms, and end cruelty to the environment. 

Food, Inc. 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Food, Inc. 2 releases in select cities April 9, 2024, and will be available on digital platforms beginning April 12, 2024.

England, 1705: Nell Jackson returns from war to her family in Tottenham. Aided by plucky sprite Billy Blind, who gives her fighting superpowers, Nell takes on the local landowner’s bullying son Thomas Blancheford but finds herself framed for murder. Forced on the run with her sisters Roxy and George, Nell becomes a highwaywoman. But as word of Nell’s extraordinary power spreads, she attracts the attention of the sinister Earl of Poynton who is hatching a magical plot against the Queen of England. Set on a collision course with Poynton, Nell, and Billy realize that her quest for justice stretches further than she ever imagined and that in order to clear her name, Nell first has to defeat Poynton and save the country.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “Renegade Nell is an impressive and captivating show that takes you back in time with a new twist to it.” Ella S. adds, “Renegade Nell is a thrilling action series with a twist of magic! It is full of fast-paced fight scenes, mysterious rituals, and bizarre fantastical creatures. I especially love the character design and physical combat!” See their full reviews below

Renegade Nell
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Renegade Nell is an impressive and captivating show that takes you back in time with a new twist to it.

Nell Jackson (Louisa Harland) has just come back from the dead when she suddenly finds herself being framed for murder and accidentally becomes the most dangerous criminal in all of the 18th century. As she tries to prove herself innocent she meets a magical spirit called Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed) and realizes just how important she is.

The female lead is one of the coolest parts of the show which is set in the 1800s. Nell Jackson is a unique and innovative role that pulls the attention of viewers. It is quite hard to create a female character that has a truly interesting and large role due to the restriction on gender roles during that time period.

Another amazing part of this show is the plot, which isn’t particularly unique except that the way it plays out allows the show to rise above others with similar plots. That keeps everything fresh and interesting. For example, Nell is an incredibly strong woman and is able to beat up many men without being caught. The cinematography is also outstanding; using visual and lighting effects that keep it looking like everything takes place in the 1800s. The show uses lots of dim lighting settings to portray the lack of proper lighting and keeps the screen from looking too modern.

The show’s message is be careful with your actions and don’t give up when things get rough.

I give Renegade Nell 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. You can watch this TV series on Disney+ starting March 29 2024.

Renegade Nell
By Ella Solano, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

Renegade Nell is a thrilling action series with a twist of magic! It is full of fast-paced fight scenes, mysterious rituals, and bizarre fantastical creatures. I especially love the character design and physical combat!

Set in 18th century England, Renegade Nell follows Nell Jackson (Louisa Harland), a quick-witted and adventurous woman with a special talent for battle. Nell returns to her home after a year of being presumed dead, and she expects nothing short of a warm welcome, but she quickly finds herself as England’s most famous outlaw, framed for the murder of Lord Blancheford (Pip Torrens). All of a sudden, Nell and her sisters (Bo Bragason, Florence Keen) are runaways and must go into hiding and remain incognito while fending for themselves.

One thing I love about Renegade Nell is how the scenes move very fast, disguising the fact that the show’s storyline moves relatively slowly. In the blink of an eye, a peaceful tea party can crumble into utter disaster and a fight can break out, which keeps the audience engaged. However, important plot points take longer to unfold, such as the truth about the Earl of Poynton (Adrian Lester) and the real reason Sofia (Alice Kremelberg) protected Thomas (Jake Dunn) from the police. I also like the fact that every character has a backstory, no matter how minor, and they contribute to the main events of the show. For example, Rasselas (Enyi Okworonko), the servant, has a secret relationship with a main character, and Sofia, originally portrayed as a compliant bystander, eventually emerges as an essential character with her own fiery personality – and she leads the investigation against Nell.

The show even displays the backstory of the antagonist, which is a rarity. Renegade Nell is the first show that has made me want to root for the bad guys. The show takes its time to develop, but it gradually reveals a detailed network of connections between all the characters’ separate stories. I love the character of Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed), a goofy fairy who brings necessary comic relief to heavier scenes. This combination of humor, action and solemnity makes the show well-rounded.

Renegade Nell reminds us that if you want something, you shouldn’t wait for it to come to you. Reach for it and don’t take no for an answer. Nell’s inspiring self-defense skills also reminded me to stand up for myself and fight for what I believe in.

I give Renegade Nell 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The first season releases exclusively to Disney Plus on March 29, 2024.

In Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the Spengler family returns to where it all started – the iconic New York City firehouse – to team up with the original Ghostbusters, who’ve developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level. But when the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an army of ghosts that casts a death chill upon the city, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their home and save the world from a second Ice Age.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Connor S. comments, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is so much fun! This time, new and old Ghostbusters team up to battle an ancient demon that wants to freeze Manhattan. The special effects are mind-blowing, especially when they’re chasing the icy ghosts.” Sydney S. adds, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire works as an extension of the adventures of the Ghostbusters. It has a developing plot that surprised me since it’s pretty creative. However, it’s not something to call “out of this world.” See their full reviews below.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 
By Connor S. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

The special effects are mind-blowing, especially when they’re chasing the icy ghosts. Also, this movie is really funny and features cool new ghostbusting gadgets and special appearances by some of the original cast members.

The film is set in New York City where Phoebe Spenglar (Mckenna Grace) and her family have moved, and they are busting ghosts in the original firehouse.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is the second movie in the franchise and it is so much fun! This time, new and old Ghostbusters team up to battle an ancient demon that wants to freeze Manhattan.

Ray Stantz (Dan Ackroyd) runs an occult book and antique shop. When Ray buys a strange, ancient orb that contains a dangerous and ancient spirit, the two stories collide and the old and new Ghostbusters team up to save the city.

There are a ton of great things in this movie. The CGI ghosts and scenes of frozen New York City are amazing and very creative. The story is really fun because of many unexpected twists, new ghostly friends and lots of comedy. One of my favorite things about this film is that many of the original characters make appearances like when Peter Venkman (Bill Murray) tests out some new ghost-catching gadgets from his secret lab.

The film’s message is that it’s important to work together to overcome challenges and that family can give us strength and the ability to be brave. Viewers should know it has scary moments, and that there is some light swearing.

I give Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can see it in theaters on Friday, March 22, 2024.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire works as an extension of the adventures of the Ghostbusters. It has a developing plot that surprised me since it’s pretty creative. However, it’s not something to call “out of this world.”

This film follows the Spenglers who reunite with beloved former Ghostbusters to fight an ancient icy evil that threatens all of humanity. Will their skills match up to this cold villain, or will they all freeze to death?

The main characters are Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), Trevor (Finn Wolfhard), Mr. Grooerson (Paul Rudd), Callie (Carrie Coon), Ray (Dan Aykroyd), Winston (Ernie Hudson, Lucky (Celeste O’Connor), Podcast (Logan Kim), Janine (Annie Potts), and Venkman (Bill Murray).

It’s interesting to see the new and old Ghostbusters collaborate to fight Garraka, the ancient ice god. This film offers a reunion the fans have wanted, and the filmmakers responded to that. I recommend watching the previous Ghostbusters movies. However, keep in mind that the original Ghostbusters do not have much involvement in this film — they are merely there to watch, which is extremely disappointing. During the ending fight scene, they just stand there.

On the other hand, the plot is engaging and I never found myself bored during the film. It starts off with the Spengler family on a mission to capture a ghost. Therefore, it has a quick start as it kicks into the storyline.

I do not care for the direction of this movie. It feels off. For example, when the ghost betrays Phoebe it happens all of a sudden, without much context, especially since the two of them don’t have that much of a bond. Also, the characters don’t really stand out from each other, besides barely knowing their backstories. I also did not like the special effects. They could be playing homage to the original movies, but the special effects of the ghosts are not realistic in any way.

On a higher note, my favorite parts of the film are the mini Stay-Puft Marshmallow Men. They are adorable and hilarious. If you remember, in the original film the marshmallow man is huge. Also, the character Nadeem is extremely amusing. He is supposed to be the Fireman that saves them all from Garraka, which is a great addition to the storyline. That’s something new I like about the movie because they don’t stick with just ghosts, which gets boring after a few movies. In the end, the film makes a good addition to the adventures of the Ghostbusters, but it isn’t something to rave about or call extraordinary.

The film’s message is that family matters most. Phoebe is banned from Ghostbusting and she gets into more trouble later on. However, in the end, her and her parents forgive each other because they realize the importance of family. You should be aware there are mature conversations and violence in the film, with a hint of profanity.

I give Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire releases in theaters March 22, 2024. 

After Po is tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, he needs to find and train a new Dragon Warrior, while a wicked sorceress plans to re-summon all the master villains whom Po has vanquished to the spirit realm.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Selene S. comments, “Don’t get your noodles in a twist because Kung Fu Panda 4 is available now. For the first time in almost a decade, comedy icon Jack Black returns to his role as Po, the world’s acknowledged most unlikely kung fu master.  Some familiar characters are here to support him on his journey along with some new relationships which refresh this beloved franchise.” Katherine S. adds, “Kung Fu Panda 4 is just the feel-good movie I needed this year. It’s an incredibly entertaining family-friendly movie that seamlessly weaves humor and heartwarming messages.”  Maica N. adds, “With a daring adventure and character development that gives the movie an appropriate pace, Kung Fu Panda 4 is a new lighthearted film that I definitely enjoyed.” Arjun N. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is that violence never solves conflicts. Although the film is full of fisticuffs, Po goes to great lengths to first reach an understanding with his foes. Po’s reluctant transformation from Dragon Warrior to Spiritual Leader is at the heart of this nonviolence; furthermore, it develops Po’s brazenness into a source of peace.” See their full reviews below.      

Kung Fu Panda 4
By Selene W., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Don’t get your noodles in a twist because Kung Fu Panda 4 is available now. For the first time in almost a decade, comedy icon Jack Black returns to his role as Po, the world’s acknowledged most unlikely kung fu master.  Some familiar characters are here to support him on his journey along with some new relationships which refresh this beloved franchise.     

Po, the Dragon Warrior (Jack Black) is about to experience a transition in his kung fu role in the Valley of Peace.  Kung Fu Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) informs Po that he is needed to become a spiritual leader and to choose and train the next Dragon Warrior.  This new role is a challenge for Po as he enjoys butt-kicking moves to counter villains and questions his fitness for a new cerebral role.  While searching for inner peace we are reminded that for Po everything comes back to dumplings.  Resisting his new role, Po determines it is necessary to first thwart a powerful new sorceress, Chameleon (Viola Davis), who can shapeshift and seeks total kung fu domination.  He finds an unlikely partner in a tricky thief, Zhen (Awkwafina) who ends up teaching him that heroes can be found even in a den of thieves.

The computer animation of this film is so beautiful that, in the beginning, it almost appears to be 3D.  The backgrounds are stunning and you’ll love the various scenes in this wonton wonderland from DreamWorks Animation. I really enjoyed the interaction between the unlikely duo of Po and Zhen and the comedy created between their two characters.  I absolutely love the new villain Chameleon and Viola Davis really illustrates how small and stylish stature doesn’t impact the extent of evil evident in a character.

This film’s message is that true change comes from within and that support from family and friends makes a great impact while helping to enable that change.  After all, every step someone takes, no matter how large or small creates a footprint for others to follow.

Kung Fu Panda 4 gets5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  This movie releases in theaters March 8, 2024 so go enjoy this hilarious new chapter in a favorite action-comedy franchise!

Kung Fu Panda 4
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Kung Fu Panda 4 is just the feel-good movie I needed this year. It’s an incredibly entertaining family-friendly movie that seamlessly weaves humor and heartwarming messages.

When our favorite Dragon Warrior and Kung Fu fighting panda, Po (Jack Black), is chosen to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace, he must step down and train a new Dragon Warrior. However, he isn’t quite ready for that change and has no idea who to choose as his successor. To top it off, the Chameleon (Viola Davis), a powerful sorceress, has set her eyes on Po’s Staff of Wisdom, so he must go on one last Dragon Warrior adventure to save the Valley of Peace with the help of the clever bandit corsac fox, Zhen (Awkwafina).

Even though the target audience for this movie, based on its humor, is pretty young, this film is enjoyable for the whole family. Plus, it embeds some deep messages about change and redemption. The animation style and quality are top notch – reflecting exactly what we expect and more from DreamWorks. The animation style of the bunnies and pigs is so iconic and adorable, and I love seeing the new types of animals the movie introduces. I also love how they portray the energy coming from the Staff of Wisdom and the Chameleon’s magic. One of my favorite duos in this movie is Mr. Ping (James Hong), who is Po’s adoptive dad, and Li (Bryan Cranston), Po’s biological dad. You can really tell how much they both care for Po and they make a great team. Awkwafina’s distinct and unique voice really fits the personality of Zhen. It’s so endearing to see her character grow and develop, and the contrast between her sneakiness and Po’s genuineness makes them complementary partners. Of course, Jack Black never fails to make the audience laugh – he makes Po so lovable and relatable. There’s a lot more star power in this film with voice actors like Viola Davis, Ian McShane, Dustin Hoffman, Mr. Beast, Seth Rogen and more. I only wish we got to see more of the Furious Five.

The film’s messages include recognizing that even though change is hard, it isn’t always bad, and it’s never too late to do the right thing. Also, as with the previous Kung Fu Panda movies, we are reminded to never judge a book by its cover.

Kung Fu Panda 4 gets 4 of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on March 8, 202

Kung Fu Panda 4
By Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 16

Exciting. Dynamic. Captivating. Our favorite panda, Po is BACK in the fourth installment of Kung Fu Panda. With a daring adventure and character development that gives the movie an appropriate pace, Kung Fu Panda 4 is a new lighthearted film that I definitely enjoyed.

Kung Fu Panda 4 focuses on Dragon Warrior Po (Jack Black), who has been promoted to the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace. This means that he now has to select and train a new warrior. In his process, he discovers that the evil shapeshifter Cameleonul (Viola Davis) is trying to steal his Staff of Wisdom. Joining forces with a witty and sly fox named Zhen (Awkwafina), Po has to try to stop Cameleonul’s plan. 

This animated film is geared toward a younger audience and with that in mind, the plot is a bit predictable. The viewers can sense the plot twists and changes throughout the movie. Despite this, the fast paced scenes like the chase in the town, keep you engaged the whole time. The animation pays great attention to detail, which helps move the story forward while keeping the audience interested. One of the biggest examples of captivating animation is when Cameleonul is shape shifting. Audiences anticipate what she will turn into next, big or small, and what vibrant colors are coming. One of the characters that stands out is Zhen, voiced by Awkwafina. Her delivery and comedic timing is on point, and she fits the character perfectly. Her banter with Po creates a friendly relationship that audiences can invest in. Kung Fu Panda 4 is perfect for a family movie night, and has an important message that all audiences can relate to. 

The film’s message is that, while it may not be easy, change is what builds character and makes you the best version of yourself. Po doesn’t know who he is, if not the Dragon Warrior, but he eventually realizes that passing wisdom down and helping others succeed is one of the greatest accomplishments he can achieve. 

Kung Fu Panda 4 gets 4 out 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can find Kung Fu Panda 4 in theaters on March 8, 2024. Make sure you check it out!

Kung Fu Panda 4
By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 22

Kung Fu Panda 4 may not pack the punch of earlier Kung Fun Panda movies, but the breathtaking animation, frenetic fights and well-placed humor more than deliver. Families must check this out for fun pandemonium that both adults and kids can enjoy.

This film starts a new journey for Dragon Warrior Po (Jack Black) once he is commanded by Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) to find a replacement Dragon Warrior and complete his transformation as the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. Unfortunately, Po knows little of spiritual learning, preferring a good fight and dumplings; worse yet, he runs into a mysterious thief Zhen (Awkwafina), who really gets under his fur. Worst of all, a sinister, shapeshifting sorceress Chameleon (Viola Davis) seeks to usurp Po’s Staff of Wisdom to lead and re-summon the spirit realm that is littered with Po’s finest foes. Desperate times call for desperate measures from Po as he trains and relies on Zhen. Can Po once again save the day and make a Dragon Warrior out of Zhen?

The cast is full of hilarious talent that work well off each other. Jack Black, as Po, picks up his character compellingly since he last picked up the mantle. Black’s liveliness is always present, but here, he also gets to show off his emotional chops while coming to terms with change. Po might be at a career crossroads, but thankfully Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) is here to help with his elderly wisdom. The Furious Five might leave a void in their absence but thankfully Awkwafina, as Zhen, naturally fills that void with Po as their hunt for the Chameleon turns into a buddy-cop spectacle. I can’t think of a better complement for Po as the duo bond over their similarities and weaknesses; furthermore, it’s Zhen’s inner struggle with her inherent shadiness that remains most compelling. For that reason, Zhen’s inclination to improve and do the right thing is a memorable and honorable character arc. Viola Davis, as Chameleon, absolutely carries the foe’s presence with her commanding, sinister voice. Sadly, the Chameleon is the weakest antagonist in the franchise. Her underdeveloped, generically villainous endgame does not bring the nuances and complexities of Po’s previous rogue gallery. Last but not least, Po’s parents Mr. Ping (James Ping) and Li (Bryan Cranston) undergo a wholesome quest to find Po; Cranston, in particular, comedically shines in a recurring subplot where he must fool enemies into thinking he’s Po. Mike Newell aptly directs the animation with stylistic choices that allow for breathtaking world building and fluid, stadium-like fights.

The film’s message is that violence never solves conflicts. Although the film is full of fisticuffs, Po goes to great lengths to first reach an understanding with his foes. Po’s reluctant transformation from Dragon Warrior to Spiritual Leader is at the heart of this nonviolence; furthermore, it develops Po’s brazenness into a source of peace. Despite the film’s child-friendliness, parents should be aware of mild violence. A few characters unfortunately die, but thankfully the deaths are comically unfocused and mostly implied.

Kung Fu Panda 4 gets4 out of 5 stars and from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases on March 8, 2024 in theaters. Be sure to check it out in theaters.