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Boonie Cubs * A Bear-Y Cute Film With Fun Animation, An Enjoyable Story, Adorable Characters And Important Lessons

Wednesday, December 4th, 2024

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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An Almost Christmas Story * Delightful! Embodies The Magic Of The Season

Friday, November 15th, 2024

An Almost Christmas Story follows Moon, a curious young owl who unexpectedly finds himself stuck in a Christmas tree destined for Rockefeller Plaza. In his attempts to escape the bustling city, Moon befriends a lost little girl named Luna. Together, they embark on a heartwarming adventure, discovering the magic of the holiday season and forming an unlikely bond as they journey back home to their parents. This animated short film is inspired by the true events of a tiny owl rescued from the New York City’s Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in 2020.

The talented voice cast includes Cary Christopher as Moon, newcomer Estella Madrigal as Luna, Jim Gaffigan as Papa Owl, Mamoudou Athie as Pelly, Alex Ross Perry as Dave The Dog, Gianna Joseph as Peaky, Phil Rosenthal as Punt, with Natasha Lyonne as Pat and John C. Reilly as The Folk Singer, who performs four songs in the short, two of which are original songs.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “An Almost Christmas Story is a delightful holiday short that perfectly embodies the magic of the season. This beautifully animated tale, directed by David Lowery and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, captures the spirit of Christmas with heartwarming storytelling, impressive animation, and an engaging voice cast. It is a must-watch that will appeal to audiences of all ages…” See her full review below and Arya B.’s interview director, David Lowery.

An Almost Christmas Story
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 20

An Almost Christmas Story is a delightful holiday short that perfectly embodies the magic of the season. This beautifully animated tale, directed by David Lowery and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, captures the spirit of Christmas with heartwarming storytelling, impressive animation, and an engaging voice cast. It is a must-watch that will appeal to audiences of all ages, showcasing the timeless values of friendship, courage, and the power of home.

Inspired by true events, the storyline follows Moon, a young owl who finds himself accidentally trapped in a Christmas tree headed to Rockefeller Plaza. Amid the hustle and bustle of New York City, Moon meets Luna, a lost girl, and together they embark on an adventure filled with wonder, laughter, and discovery. Their bond deepens as they navigate challenges and find their way back to their families, learning valuable lessons along the way.

 

 

Cary Christopher brings a lively innocence to the voice of Moon, while newcomer Estella Madrigal’s portrayal of Luna is filled with warmth and earnestness. The supporting cast, including Jim Gaffigan as the wise Papa Owl and Natasha Lyonne as Pat, adds depth and humor to the story. John C. Reilly’s performances of original songs as The Folk Singer infuse the short with a charming musical touch, enhancing its festive atmosphere.

 

The animation, handled by 88 Pictures, is vibrant and detailed, creating scenes that are both stunning and immersive. My favorite part of the film is the breathtaking use of color and lighting. From the glow of the Rockefeller Center lights to the gentle hues of winter, the visuals encapsulate the enchantment of the holiday season. The attention to detail in every frame adds an extra layer of joy, making it a visual treat.

 

 

The core message of An Almost Christmas Story emphasizes the importance of resilience and companionship. It’s a positive reminder that, even in the most unexpected circumstances, acts of kindness and courage can light the way. The film promotes teamwork and caring behavior, with no inappropriate language or risky behaviors to worry about for younger viewers.

I give An Almost Christmas Story 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, with adults likely to enjoy it as well. It premieres on Disney+ on November 15, 2024, just in time to warm hearts for the holiday season.

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Max & The Midknights * Action-Packed Series Bringing Medieval Adventure To Life With Humor, Excitement, And A Heartfelt Message

Friday, October 25th, 2024

Based on the best-selling children’s books by acclaimed author and cartoonist Lincoln Peirce (Big Nate), this show follows an adventurous 10-year-old girl named Max who embarks on a quest with her newfound friends to save the Kingdom of Byjovia from ominous forces. Throughout the series, Max leads the rest of the Midknights on challenging quests filled with all-new original songs. After King Gastley steals the throne and forces an unjust rule on the Kingdom of Byjovia, Max must come to the rescue to overthrow the power-hungry foe. With her friends and Uncle Budrick by her side, Max’s courageous spirit won’t back down no matter how difficult the quest gets.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ashleigh C. comments, “This hilarious and action-packed animated series is an absolute blast for viewers of all ages! Max & The Midknights brings medieval adventure to life. I love how the show combines humor, excitement, and a heartfelt message in a way that captivates both kids and adults.” See her full review and interview below.

Max & The Midknights
By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 20

This hilarious and action-packed animated series is an absolute blast for viewers of all ages! Max & The Midknights brings medieval adventure to life. I love how the show combines humor, excitement, and a heartfelt message in a way that captivates both kids and adults. The high-quality animation and clever storytelling make this a must-watch.

Max & The Midknights follows the journey of Max (Blu del Barrio), an adventurous ten-year-old girl with a big dream: becoming a knight. She leads her friends on thrilling adventures in a fantastical medieval kingdom — battling zombies, outsmarting evil sorcerers, and even taming dragons. Max’s determination and bravery drive the story, making each episode full of surprises and laughs, while teaching valuable lessons about courage and friendship.

The voice acting is top-notch, with a cast that brings the characters to life in a truly dynamic way — including Blu del Barrio as Max, Melissa Villaseñor as Millie, Zeno Robinson as Simon and Caleb Yen as Kevyn. Max is voiced with a perfect mix of sass and sincerity, making her a standout lead character. The 3D animation is stunning, especially during the action sequences, which are full of sword fights, magical duels, and explosive moments.

The world of Max & The Midknights is colorful, immersive, and full of detail, making each scene feel like a mini-movie. One of my favorite parts is the series’ use of humor. The show is genuinely funny, with plenty of clever jokes that will make both kids and adults laugh. Max’s imagination also plays a huge role in the series, adding another layer of fun as she dreams up wild and creative solutions to the challenges she and her friends face. The combination of humor, heart, and action makes it an exciting adventure from start to finish.

The message of Max & The Midknights is about pursuing your true passions, no matter what others may say. Max is determined to become a knight, despite those around her doubting her abilities because she’s a girl. The show encourages kids to follow their dreams and not let anyone tell them they can’t achieve their goals.

I give Max & The Midknights 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, though older audiences and adults will enjoy it as well. This fantastic series makes its television debut on Nickelodeon on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

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Agatha All Along Exceeded All My Expectations. It Is Filled With Suspense, Mystery, Dark Comedy, And Fantasy.

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024

In Agatha All Along, the infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself down and out of power after a suspicious goth Teen helps break her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards a witch with what they’re missing. Together, Agatha and this mysterious Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road.

In Agatha All Along, the infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself down and out of power after a suspicious goth Teen helps break her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards a witch with what they’re missing. Together, Agatha and this mysterious Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “Marvel’s Agatha All Along has me bewitched!  This show exceeded my expectations. It continues Agatha’s story after the events of WandaVision and is filled with suspense, mystery, dark comedy, and fantasy.” Kennedy P. adds, “I love this show!  It is witchy, smart, dark, and so good.  It is insanely fun and the best bewitching follow up to WandaVision.” See their full reviews below.

Agatha All Along: Season 1
Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

(L-R): Teen (Joe Locke) and Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

Marvel’s Agatha All Along has me bewitched!  This series continues Agatha’s story after the events of WandaVision and is filled with suspense, mystery, dark comedy, and fantasy.

The story begins three years after Wanda has taken Agatha’s (Kathryn Hahn) powers. She has no powers and no recollection of who she is.  Under a spell, she believes she is a detective in a small town solving a murder. With the help of a teen (Joe Locke), the spell is broken.  She must form a coven and travel the witch’s road to regain her powers.

This show exceeded my expectations. It magically casts a coven of witches with great chemistry – Sasheer Zamata (Jennifer Kale), Rio Vidal (Aubrey Plaza), Alice Wu-Gulliver (Ali Ahn), Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone), Mrs Hart (Debra Jo Rupp).

(L-R): Mrs. Hart/Sharon Davis (Debra Jo Rupp), Ali Ahn (Alice Wu-Gulliver), Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone), and Jennifer Kale (Sasheer Zamata) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

The coven is hesitant to trust Agatha; her reputation precedes her. The witch’s road challenges the fears of each witch on their journey to release a curse and help Agatha regain her powers.  The witch’s road offers five houses with a trial at each. Each house is themed and focuses on a weakness or fear of a specific witch.  The trials bring chaos, suspense and self-doubt.  Through this adversity, each witch faces their own fears, and the coven forms a bond strengthening their resolve as they continue their journey.

Everything about this series is fabulous.  The scenes are elaborate and transition into dark, fantasy-creating, spell-binding effects. From living rooms and basements, from the witch’s road of glowing forests, all of the set designs and lighting bring this Marvel series to life.  The costumes are elaborate and reflect the theme of each house. Special effects, combined with music, make each scene suspenseful.

Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

Agatha’s character is self-centered, yet conflicted.  We see her as evil and yet cannot help but love her.

The show’s message is about teamwork and how trust and respect are proven through one’s consistent actions.  Viewers should be aware this contains witch horror, suspenseful scenes, partial nudity, foul language and other adult content.

Agatha All Along: Season 1 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The series streams on Disney + beginning Sep 18, 2024.

Agatha All Along
Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 10

Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

It was Agatha All Along!  I love this show!  It is witchy, smart, dark, and so good.  It is insanely fun and the best bewitching follow up to WandaVision.  Speaking of which, I highly recommend watching it before watching Agatha All Along because you learn all about Agatha there. If you are a fan of Marvel this series is a must watch.

Agatha All Along picks up right after WandaVision, when Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) is left powerless, thanks to the Scarlet Witch/Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen). In a mission to get her sorceress powers back, Agatha creates a makeshift coven of her own, but not every member has the same intention. A spell-bound Agatha regains freedom thanks to a goth Teen’s help. Intrigued by his plea, she embarks on the Witches’ Road trials to reclaim her powers and discover the Teen’s motivations.

Jennifer Kale (Sasheer Zamata) in Marvel Television’s AGATHA ALL ALONG, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2024 MARVEL.

This is the perfect show for the spooky season.  The series is engaging, fun, dramatic and scary.  I love the cast portraying the coven. I love the cast portraying the Coven – Sasheer Zamata (Jennifer Kale), Rio Vidal (Aubrey Plaza), Alice Wu-Gulliver (Ali Ahn), Lilia Calderu (Patti LuPone), Mrs Hart (Debra Jo Rupp). Kathryn Hahn is brilliant as Agatha and Aubrey Plaza, as Rio is equally outstanding.  I really like seeing the two of them on screen together — they are a dynamic duo.  The entire cast delivers devious and spellbinding performances plus there is lots of magic, spells, sudden reversals, and otherworldly action. I love seeing the characters flying across the room or getting blasted with light filled explosions. The special effects are incredible. There are some wicked battles and it is all done so well on screen.  I enjoy how all the characters generally have positive relationships and support one another. This show is a solid choice for family viewing if your kids are mature enough for the levels of violence and dark humor.

The message in this series is about teamwork, trusting others, respect and believing in yourself.

I give Agatha All Along 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch the first two episodes of Agatha All Along on Disney+ now and the series will continue to air a new episode each week.  There are 9 episodes total and the finale will be on October 30, 3024.

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LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy * Reimagines The Star Wars Galaxy Like Never Before

Friday, September 13th, 2024

A nerf-herder discovers an artifact that twists the Star Wars universe, swapping the roles of heroes and villains. He embarks on an adventure to restore order and emerge as the savior who reassembles the fractured galaxy.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “Legends aren’t made, they are built!  I love LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy.  This four-piece animated special reimagines the Star Wars galaxy like never before.  It is funny and the cast is outstanding…This show is filled with heart, laughter, and the important message of believing in yourself. ” See her full review below.

LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy
Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 10

 

A scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

In LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, the entire Star Wars galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling (Gaten Matarazzo), unearths a powerful artifact called the Cornerstone from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together.

LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy is full of comedy, action and incredible animation.  This show is filled with heart, laughter, and the important message of believing in yourself.

Imperial X-fighters in a scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved

It is a family friendly special and for fans of LEGO or Star Wars this is a must watch. I could not take my eyes off the screen.  The animation and visuals are stunning – I love when the light sabers light up and the flying sequences are awesome.

They could not have picked a better cast to voice these characters.  It features the vocal work of Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Gaten Matarazzo (Sig Greebling), Bobby Moynihan (Jedi Bob), Tony Revolori (Dev Greebling), Marsai Martin (Yesi Scala), Michael Cusack (Servo), and Ahmed Best (Darth Jar Jar). The writing is so smart and funny.

Jedi Bob in a scene from LEGO® STAR WARS: REBUILD THE GALAXY, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

I think this movie will create a whole new generation of LEGO and Star Wars fans because it has something for everyone. This film teaches you to believe in yourself and to embrace teamwork.

I give LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy on Disney+ beginning September 13, 2024 on Disney +.

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