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Archive for the 'Feature film' Category

Jurassic Pet 3 * An Entertaining Family Movie With Realistic CGI Effects, Intriguing Storyline And Fun Wardrobe

Thursday, November 14th, 2024

When a shy young girl and her outgoing brother come across a mysterious egg, they are shocked when a dinosaur hatches from it. When it gets loose, they have to get to it before a documentary film crew does. Along the way, they meet an older man and barista who know more about where the dinosaur came from and together, they work to get it back to its home so it won’t be exploited in our world.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Adele B. comments, “Jurassic Pet 3 is an entertaining family movie that kept me laughing and on my toes until the end. I was immediately engaged with its realistic CGI effects, intriguing storyline and fun wardrobe.” Ariel K. adds, “One of the best things about Jurassic Pet is the adventure. It’s not just about finding a dinosaur; it’s about keeping Spike hidden and safe while figuring out how to get him back to his home in the dinosaur realm. Our heroes have to think quickly to keep Spike a secret from the townspeople and the film crew who want to use him in their movie. Gavin S. adds, “What sets Jurassic Pet 3 apart is its charming portrayal of sibling dynamics and personal growth. Madison’s character arc is particularly resonant; her journey from timid to courageous is beautifully depicted.” Ryan M. wraps it up with, “This movie is very funny, energetic and suspenseful. When I watched it, I was at the edge of my seat trying to guess what would happen next. I love the sets by Steve Maddox and the costumes by Valerie Parker are outstanding. I love the CGI and how the dinosaurs are animated.” See their full reviews below.

Jurassic Pet 3
By Adele Rayna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

Jurassic Pet 3 is an entertaining family movie that kept me laughing and on my toes until the end. I was immediately engaged with its realistic CGI effects, intriguing storyline and fun wardrobe.

The story opens with Vanessa (Marila Lombrozo) and Jeff (Brooks Ryan) committed to making a documentary about dinosaurs. Meanwhile, a young girl, Madison (Ava Torres) and her brother Ethan (Kyle Rangel) find an egg and are pleasantly surprised by what is inside. Could it be a real dinosaur? They soon find out the answer is yes but then, the dinosaur escapes. They enlist the help of Wendy (Sophie Procter) and Mortimer (Ben Hall) to track down the dinosaur to make sure it doesn’t get into the hands of the documentary team before it’s too late.

I was drawn in immediately with the realistic opening CGI. I felt like I was looking at actual dinosaurs and couldn’t wait to see how the story developed. The writers created a gripping storyline where I wasn’t sure what was next in the journey to find the dinosaur.  And at the same time, I couldn’t stop laughing. The cast has fun on-screen chemistry and are very natural in their delivery. One of my favorite parts is the scene where they go to the theater and get in with a silly made up story.  The wardrobe really caught my eye. I love Wendy’s outfits as they perfectly match her bold personality. And Madison‘s couture at the beginning of the movie really captures her as a caring and curious kid. There are quite a few short falls in this movie – some scenes drag on and are not truly needed for the overall storyline. Also, as the movie develops, the CGI decreases in quality and it doesn’t quite live up to what it is at the beginning.

There are a few important messages in the film – nature should be preserved and animals should be handled with care at all costs.  Even when a situation seems impossible, if you work together, you can solve any problem with a little humor and fun.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 3 out 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It releases on VOD and streaming November 19, 2024.

Jurassic Pet 3
By Ariel K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I really enjoyed Jurassic Pet 3 because it is a fun and adventurous movie that kept me hooked from start to finish!

The story begins when siblings Madison (Ava Torres) and Ethan (Kyle Rangel) receive a mysterious egg from a man who is hit by a car. The man tells them to deliver the egg to Wendy Jenkins (Sophie Proctor), but before they can do that, the egg hatches into a baby dinosaur they call Spike, who escapes. Wendy, the mystery man, Madison, and Ethan work together to find the dinosaur and bring him back through the portal to the dinosaur realm where he belongs. They quickly realize they have to hide Spike from the public, and things get more complicated when a film crew comes to town and captures him. The crew wants to exploit Spike for profit, which creates a lot of problems for the four of them.

One of the best things about Jurassic Pet is the adventure. It’s not just about finding a dinosaur; it’s about keeping Spike hidden and safe while figuring out how to get him back to his home in the dinosaur realm. Our heroes have to think quickly to keep Spike a secret from the townspeople and the film crew who want to use him in their movie. There’s a lot of suspense as they try to hide him, especially when Spike gets bigger and harder to keep out of sight. The adventure really picks up when they have to figure out how to get Spike back to his world before it’s too late. The idea of a dinosaur realm adds a fun twist, suggesting that dinosaurs didn’t go extinct—they have their own world to return to. The mystery of this hidden world keeps the adventure fresh and exciting, making it feel like you’re discovering something new with the characters. The background music is great and really stands out. My favorite part is the cliffhanger at the end.

Jurassic Pet 3 is a fun and lighthearted movie that blends adventure, humor, and a little bit of mystery. It has a lot of heart. If you enjoy movies with creative storylines, this is the film for you. The movie’s message is that all living things deserve respect.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It will be released on VOD and streaming on November 19, 2024. I hope you enjoy it!

Jurassic Pet 3
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Jurassic Pet 3 is a delightful adventure that captures the imagination with its heartwarming story and engaging characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the film’s blend of humor and excitement, which kept me entertained from start to finish.

The film follows a shy girl named Madison (Ava Torres) and her outgoing brother Ethan (Kyle Rangel) who stumble upon a mysterious egg in their backyard. To their astonishment, the egg hatches into a small dinosaur, sparking a whirlwind of chaos and excitement. As the siblings try to care for their new pet, they must also evade a team of ambitious scientists determined to capture the creature for their own nefarious purposes. With time running out, Madison and Ethan embark on a thrilling journey to return the dinosaur to its rightful home, navigating obstacles and learning valuable lessons along the way.

What sets Jurassic Pet 3 apart is its charming portrayal of sibling dynamics and personal growth. Madison’s character arc is particularly resonant; her journey from timid to courageous is beautifully depicted. The film deftly balances lighthearted moments with deeper themes of friendship and responsibility. The special effects used to bring the dinosaur to life are impressive, creating a believable and adorable creature that audiences will root for. The humor is cleverly woven throughout, appealing to both children and adults, making it a family-friendly film that invites laughter and wonder.

Additionally, the soundtrack complements the action perfectly, enhancing the emotional beats without overshadowing the story. Overall, Jurassic Pet 3 is an engaging and heartwarming film that combines adventure, humor, and a touch of nostalgia, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next escapade.

The film conveys the message that courage and teamwork can help overcome any challenge.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 through 12. This film releases on VOD and streaming on November 19, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

Jurassic Pet 3
By Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Roar, get ready to be amazed! Jurassic Pet has come back in Jurassic Pet 3, but we have a problem, another dinosaur has entered earth. What will they do?

The story follows a shy girl, Madison (Ava Torres), with her outstanding brother (Kyle Rangel) who see a man (Ben Hall) get hit by a car and give a bag to the kids with a dinosaur egg inside. Before you know it, the egg hatches a dinosaur. Meanwhile, a very confident film crew comes along, looking for dinosaurs and claiming that they will have a special event.

This movie is very funny, energetic and suspenseful. When I watched it, I was at the edge of my seat trying to guess what would happen next. I love the sets by Steve Maddox and the costumes by Valerie Parker are outstanding. I love the CGI and how the dinosaurs are animated. The acting is quite real and expressive, especially Ava Torres as Madison. The movie is so funny, especially when the two men are interviewed. Oddly enough the scene when the car hits a man and the driver starts panicking, is hilarious.

The tree house scene is my favorite part because this is where the egg hatches and that is where a big chunk of comedy happens. I also like the film crew because they make the movie funnier and very interesting.

The film’s message is that even though you like something, if it does not belong here you still have to let it go.

Jurassic Pet 3 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This movie will be available on streaming and VOD beginning November 19, 2024.

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Saving Christmas * Humor, Charm, Pure Entertainment! The Next Holiday Classic!

Monday, November 4th, 2024

Tired of family chores, and only caring about his gifts, a teenager wishes a little too hard and accidentally makes Christmas disappear! As the only one who remembers its existence, it’s now up to him to bring the holiday back to the world and learn the true meaning of Christmas.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Adele B. comments, “Saving Christmas is pure entertainment and kept a smile on my face until the end! It could easily be the next holiday classic. I like the juxtaposition of funny moments, with more deep and heartwarming ones.” Braedyn M. adds, “Saving Christmas has everything I would expect from a Christmas movie, and some things that I didn’t.  Humor, charm, and the holiday spirit give this movie an original Christmas feel, but the mystery and dual reality make it enjoyable not just in December, but throughout the year as well.” See their full reviews below.

Saving Christmas
By Adele B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

Saving Christmas is pure entertainment and kept a smile on my face until the end! It could easily be the next holiday classic. I like the juxtaposition of funny moments, with more deep and heartwarming ones. All of the visuals and acting are engaging and definitely draw you in.

The story starts with a glimpse at a typical teenager, Nick (Ricardo Ortiz), annoyed that his computer isn’t working and he could care less about Christmas. Meanwhile, his family is passionately preparing for Christmas and, despite Nick’s lack of enthusiasm, they make him participate.

Nick is shocked while putting up the lights and awakens only to discover that his family has drastically changed and Christmas has disappeared. With tables turned and as the only one who remembers its existence, Nick enlists the help of his best friend Ben (Josh Zaharia) to help him save Christmas and bring the magic of the holiday back to life for his family.

This film definitely kept my attention and I stayed curious wondering what was next in this crazy adventure. Richard Ortiz, as Nick, has great comedic timing and is very relatable. I couldn’t help but root for him in his fight to save Christmas.

It is so touching the great lengths he goes to get his family into the holiday spirit. The camera work is terrific with seamless transitions that make it easy to watch. The sets and props look so realistic and typical of everyday life by a middle class American family. I also enjoyed the costumes, especially when they dress up for Christmas as each outfit s personalized for each member of the family. My absolute favorite costumes are his sister Jojo’s outfits and her hair styles as they perfectly match her personality.

We quickly see the fun relationship that Jojo and Nick have as well as the bond between all of the family members. I love how Nick uses simple items like pom-poms and candy canes all around and his family loves them. It really shows how much he adores his family and the strong bond between them. I love seeing the actors get into their different characters both with and without Christmas. The one shortfall is that the supporting actors didn’t quite stand up to the dynamics of the main characters. Also, I was not so fond of the background music in some scenes and in a few spots the lip movements are out of sync with the person speaking.

The film’s message is to always be grateful for what you have and to appreciate loved ones. It highlights the true meaning of Christmas and how traditions bring us joy. It also reminds us to never give up when we are faced with a challenge, especially if we are fighting for something we truly believe in.

I give Saving Christmas 4 out of 5 and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This film premieres on VOD and streaming on November 5, 2024.

Saving Christmas
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Saving Christmas has everything I would expect from a Christmas movie, and some things that I didn’t.  Humor, charm, and the holiday spirit give this movie an original Christmas feel, but the mystery and dual reality make it enjoyable not just in December, but through out the year as well.

Nick Baker (Ricardo Ortiz) is a 16-year-old boy whose only goals in life are to make movies, and open presents.  So when his Mom (Casey James) tosses a thousand and one Christmas chores his way, he wishes for Christmas to disappear.

My favorite character in the film is Nick’s best friend, Ben (Josh Zaharia).  No matter what crazy idea Nick has, such as Christmas, Ben tries to find the positive in it.  When Nick is late for a film group meeting, Ben tries to reason with the other members, telling them that Nick must have a reason for being late, and not to kick him out of the club.  Nick’s family is quite interesting.  Each member of their clan brings something different to the table.  When Christmas is forgotten, the way they change is fun to watch.

Nick’s younger sister, Jojo (Ella Wejr / Ellexis Wejr), goes from being a regular girl who loves the atmosphere of Christmas, to a professional, business women who is president of the debate club.

Some parts of the film are kind of hard to understand, and make it slightly confusing.  For example, in the beginning, we see Nick having the time of his life on his computer, but the montage ends and we see him sleeping at his desk.  At first I thought that he only dreamed the whole thing, but later we learn that he often works during the night, as it “brings out his creativity.”  Some parts are kind of corny, but nothing that detracts it as a good holiday movie.

The film’s message is that it is better to give than receive. Before Nick erases Christmas, he is on the receiving team when it comes to gifts. But once the holiday is gone, he sees how he took the kindness of others and everything they did for him for granted. Be forewarned that there is a bit of profanity in this film.

I give Saving Christmas 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Saving Christmas flies into theaters on Nov 5, 2024.

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever * All About Family, The True Meaning Of Christmas, And Helping Others In Need

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024

The Herdmans are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, they steal, they bully…and now they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (The Chosen) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are in over their heads, especially against a town that wants them to kick the Herdmans out. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson, Platte F. Clark and Darin McDaniel.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan M. comments, “In Emmanuel it’s Christmas time and it’s time for their annual pageant. But, the Herdmans family, a group of bullying kids led by their older sister Imogene, ruin everything they touch, decide that they will be part of the pageant. Will it be the best pageant ever?” Carter P. adds, “I like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  It is about family, the true meaning of Christmas, helping others in need and is heartfelt and funny at times.” See their full review and interview with director Dallas Jenkins below.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
By Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

In Emmanuel it’s Christmas time and it’s time for their annual pageant. But, the Herdmans family, a group of bullying kids led by their older sister Imogene (Beatrice Schneider), ruin everything they touch, decide that they will be part of the pageant. Will it be the best pageant ever?

Kynlee Heiman, Matthew Lamb, Mason Nelligan, Beatrice Schneider, Ewan Wood, Essek Moore. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allen Fraser

The storyline is about a town preparing for their much awaited 75th Christmas pageant. Unfortunately, the organizer, Mrs. Armstrong (Meriam Bernstein) breaks both her legs, so Grace (Judy Greer) volunteers to replace her to organize the pageant. Hoping to get free snacks, the Herdmans force their way into the pageant, creating chaos all around them and putting Grace under a lot of pressure to replace them.  Grace is facing a difficult time to get the pageant going and the final results leave everyone speechless.

I love every character in this movie, especially the Herdmans – Beatrice Schneider as Imogene, Mason D. Nelligan as Ralph, Matthew Lamb as Claude, Evan Wood as Leroy, Essek Moore as Ollie, Kynlee Heiman as Gladys.

The main characters are almost all kids and their performances as bullies are outstanding, and we also see their vulnerability eventually.

Beatrice Schneider as Imogene Herdman and Judy Greer as Grace in Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allen Fraser

There are so many funny moments like when Gladiys jumps and scares the three boys. This movie is based on a best-selling book by Barbara Robinson. Dallas Jenkins’s direction shines in the selection of locations, sets, decor and acting.  The film does switch eras between current and the 1920s.

There are a couple of important messages in this movie –  a reminder that we should not judge a book by its cover and that everyone deserves a chance to prove what they can do when they feel supported. Be aware that this is a Christian oriented movie presenting the nativity in a very refreshing way.  Will it become another recurring Christmas movie?  Let’s hope so!

I give The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12 plus adults. It is available in theaters beginning Nov 8, 2024. Check it out.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Essek Moore, Ewan Wood, Lorelei Olivia Mote, Matthew Lamb, Molly Wright as Beth, Beatrice Schneider as Imogene Herdman, Mason Nelligan, Kynlee Heiman, Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allen Fraser

I like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  It is about family, the true meaning of Christmas, helping others in need and is heartfelt and funny at times.

The storyline is about the Herdmans who are absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, bully, and now they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. The film is based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson.  It follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for food and walk away with the lead roles in the town’s Christmas pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time, and she and her daughter, Beth (Molly Belle Wright), along with her husband Bob (Pete Holmes), are in over their heads, especially against a town that wants them to kick the Herdmans out. But the play’s mischievous stars might just end up teaching the community the true meaning of Christmas.

This movie is full of heart and, although the antics of the Herdmans are outrageous, the behaviors of the church children and adults are humorously familiar.

Pete Holmes as Bob and Judy Greer as Grace in Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allan Fraser

It is an entertaining and heartwarming movie for the whole family at Christmas time. It highlights the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ in the most beautiful nativity scene. The costumes and the nativity scene are exceptional.  The setting makes it look just like a barn the night Jesus was born.  My favorite part is the ending when the children are acting out the play and the nativity scene.  The community comes together and realizes what is really important on Christmas.  Judy Greer, as Grace, gives a very believable performance as the mother and director of the church performance.  She is patient and loving with her community and all of the children.

The children in the film are Charlie (Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez), Imogene (Beatrice Schneider), Claude (Matthew Lamb) Gladys (Kynlee Heiman), Ralph (Mason Nelligan). Speaking of the children, they all give fantastic performances, especially Molly Belle Write as Beth.  She is funny and teaches the importance of Christmas and being kind to others.

Pete Holmes as Bob, Molly Wright as Beth and Judy Greer as Grace in Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allan Fraser

There is so much chemistry between these characters that I could feel it as I watched the film.  They all connect to being there for each other, their church and community.

The film’s message centers on how people should not be judged, how redemption is important, and how tradition can be altered by perspective. It is important for children to learn the lesson of not judging a book by its cover, and this story does just that.

I give The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  You can see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in theaters beginning November 8, 2024.

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Bookworm * Interesting Take On A Class Adventure With Lots Of Humor And Twists And Turns

Thursday, October 17th, 2024

Bookworm follows 11-year-old Mildred (Nell Fisher) whose life takes a wild turn when her estranged father, Strawn Wise (Elijah Wood), a washed-up Las Vegas illusionist, suddenly reappears. Years ago, after a magical encounter with the once-charming Strawn, Mildred’s mom moved back to New Zealand. Now, a comical mishap leaves Strawn caring for Mildred while her mom is hospitalized. Their first adventure? Camping to hunt for the mythological Canterbury Panther. As this mismatched duo navigates the wilderness, magic tricks, and an extraordinary quest, hilarity ensues, and they might just find a way to piece their family back together.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “Bookworm is an interesting take on a classic adventure.  Full of humor, and surprising twists and turns, Bookworm is a quest with a magical touch that kept me on the edge of my seat. The film’s message is that there is always a way to solve a problem.” See his full review below.

Bookworm
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Bookworm is an interesting take on a classic adventure.  Full of humor, and surprising twists and turns, Bookworm is a quest with a magical touch that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Mildred (Nell Fisher) is an 11-year-old girl who has devoted her childhood to proving that the elusive Canterbury Panther exists in the mountains of New Zealand.  When a household accident renders her mother (Morgana O’Rielly) incapable of going camping in search of the cat, she is pretty disappointed.  However, when her illusionist father Strawn Wise (Elijah Wood) shows up for the first time in her life, she decides to head out anyway. What happens next?  An expedition that not only has a classic adventure feel, but also shows that relationships can heal over time.

What I like best about this film is not the scenes, characters, or music; it is how the story is told.  The way the action develops is different from most movies; it is broken up into chapters with each one adding depth to the plot.  And, the plot isn’t the best.  It starts off fine, but changes midway during their adventure.  While the twists and turns kept me wondering what would happen next, they also undermine the main idea of the quest, which is to find the panther.  Humor plays a crucial role in the film.

With Mildred being a rather to-the-point kid who doesn’t have time for nonsense, her dad, Strawn, is the exact opposite. Trying to practice his magic tricks while Mildred is working hard to set up camp is one example. This movie originated from outside of the U.S. and does some very untypically Hollywood things such as when we are observing the conversations between the characters and suddenly the camera zooms out and focuses on a mushroom.  It’s an odd transition but it does help in rounding out the unusual take of a jungle adventure.

The film’s message is that there is always a way to solve a problem. An example of this is how Mildred shows that she is always ready to put her bookworm brain to the test to achieve her goal. Be forewarned that there is some profanity in this film and a bit of blood, but nothing gruesome or gory.

I give Bookworm 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. Bookworm swings into theaters on Oct 18, 2024.

 

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Piece by Piece * Wonderful Innovative Approach Telling Pharrell Williams Life Story. Great Visuals; Great Storytelling

Thursday, October 10th, 2024

LEGO bricks tell the life story of singer/songwriter and record producer Pharrell Williams — from his childhood in Virginia to his success in the music and fashion industry. Piece By Piece is a unique cinematic experience that invites audiences on a vibrant journey through the life of cultural icon Pharrell Williams. Told through the lens of LEGO® animation, turn up the volume on your imagination and witness the evolution of one of music’s most innovative minds.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “This film is such an innovative approach to the music-documentary genre as it tells Pharrell Williams’ life story in the form of LEGO bricks. I absolutely love the music, colors, visuals, storytelling, and so much more.” See her full review below.

Piece by Piece
By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Jay-Z and Pharrell Williams in director Morgan Neville’s PIECE BY PIECE, a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

Piece by Piece is the perfect addition to the LEGO movie franchise. I was so excited for this film since the LEGO movies hold a special place in my heart. I not only grew up playing with LEGOs, and The LEGO Ninjago Movie was my first ever press interview! I love that all the LEGO movies have been so diverse and different. This film is such an innovative approach to the music-documentary genre as it tells Pharrell Williams’ life story in the form of LEGO bricks. I absolutely love the music, colors, visuals, storytelling, and so much more.

The film follows the traditional documentary formula — it starts off examining Pharrell’s beginnings.

Director Morgan Neville in PIECE BY PIECE, a Focus Features release.
Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

He discovered music at a very young age and instantly felt a strong connection with music beyond just listening to it. He started a band with his friend Chad Hugo who was just as passionate about music; they called themselves the Neptunes. When a record label moved in across the street from them, Pharrell insisted on being heard, and eventually he was. From there his career skyrocketed.

He eventually lost himself and his touch as he became obsessed with creating music for people rather than making music for himself. When he reconnected with his sense of self, his career once again went above and beyond.

Pharrell Williams stars in director Morgan Neville’s PIECE BY PIECE, a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

It was Pharrell’s idea to utilize LEGOs to tell his story, which I think is such a great choice. The beauty of using LEGOs is that it’s free to interpret in any way, and the animators were free to create any world imaginable. The LEGO animation is perfect. I love the sets and other visual creations. Pharrell Williams is a very important person in the music industry, and I think the choice of LEGOs emphasizes how unique and special his story is.

So many other artists have also been a part of his journey — Gwen Stefani, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk, Snoop Dog, and many other artists. The cast is incredible and they all voice themselves.

Daft Punk and Pharrell Williams in director Morgan Neville’s PIECE BY PIECE, a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

Of course, one of the most important aspects of this film is the score. This film takes us back in time with some of Pharrell’s greatest hits. Director Morgan Neville captivates the essence of Pharrell’s story while making it interesting, fresh, and new for the audience through a completely mesmerizing cinematic experience.

The film’s message is that you can reach any goal you strive for with hard work and perseverance.

I give Piece by Piece 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Piece by Piece in theaters October 11, 2024.

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