KIDS FIRST! News

Percy Jackson is on a dangerous quest. Outrunning monsters and outwitting gods, he must journey across America to return Zeus’ master bolt and stop an all-out war. After losing his mother, Percy is sheltered at Camp Half-Blood, a sanctuary for demigod children. He must prove himself and confront his origins once he discovers he too is a demigod, and will take off into the perils of pursuing enemies in search of the Underworld. With the help of his quest mates Annabeth and Grover, Percy’s journey will lead him closer to the answers he seeks: how to fit into a world where he feels out of place, if he’ll ever see his mother again, and if he can ever find out who he’s destined to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a phenomenally executed TV series based on the first book in the Percy Jackson series written by Rick Riordan. One of its highlights is that it features a young, yet talented, cast.” Mikella G. adds, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians is an action packed series following the intense adventures of Percy, taking his audience on a wild adventure! Due to its high-tech quality, my attention was locked in the entire time.” See their full reviews and Connor’s interviews below. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians 
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a phenomenally executed TV series based on the first book in the Percy Jackson series written by Rick Riordan. One of its highlights is that it features a young, yet talented, cast.

The series follows a young boy named Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell) who is living his relatively normal life until suddenly and unexpectedly he finds out he’s a demigod which is essentially a child of a mortal and a god. After finding this out he gets thrown into one dangerous situation after another and eventually embarks on a quest where the fate of humanity, as we know it, is at stake.

One of the most spectacular parts of the series is the realistic creatures. The show is live action however it features a lot of mythological creatures from classic Greek myths. All those creatures have to be brought to life in a way that makes them look like they actually belong in this world. Another very impressive point is the acting. A lot of the actors are quite young. In fact the two leads are only 14 years old. Despite their young age, their acting is very impressive and they portray a range of emotions from devastated to determined, and everything in between. One of the very best parts of the show that all fans will enjoy is that the series stays very close to the original storyline of the books. Sometimes films and series stray quite off course from the books they are based on. However this one is so true to the original plotline and even brings some of the fan favorite small moments to life.

The series’ message is to be proud of who you are and who you’ve become and never stop trying. Be aware that there are a few loud and violent moments that could startle younger children. 

I give Percy Jackson and the Olympians 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch the first two episodes starting December 20 2023 on Disney+ and the remaining shows will launch once a week every Wednesday.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is an action packed series following the intense adventures of Percy, taking his audience on a wild adventure! Due to its high-tech quality, my attention was locked in the entire time. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians retells the story from the well-known book series, by Rick Riordin, creating a live action TV series. We follow Percy on his journey of coming into himself as a half-blood and the discoveries he begins to make. After joining a camp to learn more about who he is, Percy is faced with the ultimate challenge, where he finds himself on a life threatening quest, in which the weight of the world is quite literally in his hands. The Gods are fighting, and it’s up to Percy to save the day!

A standout in Percy Jackson and the Olympians is the action and adventure. Starting from the very first episode, the characters’ fight scenes were top notch. The CGI is incredible, specifically when it comes to the creation of the monsters. Everything feels so real and looks like these strong kids are really battling enormous giants. It doesn’t feel cliche at all. From the very start of the show, there isn’t a moment where I was bored or not entertained. Everything is so interesting, and kept me wanting more.

The execution of the show is very impressive. Recreating a well-known story can sometimes get lost in the idea, however the writers brought everything to life perfectly while staying true to the storyline. This show reaches its fans, while creating new ones. The cast is very impressive – each character is spot on. Walker Scobell as Percy makes so much sense – his execution of Percy brings exactly who I envisioned in the books to life. Dior Goodjohn, as Clarisse, also becomes her character with emotional depth.

The message of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is to always believe in yourself, because you can truly make anything that you want happen. Be aware that this series contains violent scenes, and uses swords and other weapons.

I give Percy Jackson and the Olympians 4.5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  It launched on December 20 2023 on Disney+ and the remaining shows launch once a week every Wednesday. 

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A troubled security guard begins working at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. During his first night on the job, he realizes that the night shift won’t be so easy to get through. Pretty soon he will unveil what actually happened at Freddy’s.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “Five Nights at Freddy’s is a comedic horror film, filled with intensity and suspense. It brought me to the edge of my seat and kept me wanting more… The message of Five Nights at Freddy’s is to listen to your heart and never give up on what you believe in.” See her full review below.

Five Nights at Freddy’s
By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Five Nights at Freddy’s is a comedic horror film, filled with intensity and suspense. It brought me to the edge of my seat and kept me wanting more. 

Based on the popular and highly-engaging video game, the storyline follows Mike (Josh Hutcherson), who is struggling to make it financially while having to care for his younger sister. He gets offered a security job night shift for the abandoned “Freddy’s Pizzeria” and, at first, is hesitant, but eventually realizes that he has no choice. Mike struggles with past family trauma and has very vivid dreams at night. When he starts to fall asleep at work his dreams get longer and clearer. He soon learns that the job he has taken can be the answer to more things than he could have ever imagined.

A huge standout in this film is the cinematography. Every camera angle holds so much purpose, and is made with such intention. Moods are created from a singular camera angle and set the tone for the entire film. For example, the flashbacks scenes that accompany Mike’s dreams focus on specific moments to highlight their importance. The director, Chris Columbus, creates this uncomfortable feeling through his work, and delivers an outstanding film.

Additionally, I really enjoyed the suspense throughout the entire movie. I never knew what was going to happen next, and I was riveted to the screen. I wanted to cover my eyes, but didn’t want to look away at the same time! There is the perfect amount of scariness, laughter and surprise. Lastly, the message of this film is both heartwarming and intriguing.

The importance of never giving up is highlighted in such an interesting way and can almost be hard to spot. However, at the end, even though we are left wanting more, it is clear that hope is one of the only ways to get through life. Joy and happiness is a must in order to continue successfully, and that is the underlying meaning of this movie.

The message of Five Nights at Freddy’s is to listen to your heart and never give up on what you believe in. Be forewarned that this film does include gruesome content.

I give Five Nights at Freddy’s 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Five Nights at Freddy’s in theaters and on Peacock October 27, 2023.

Loki: Season 2 picks up in the aftermath of the shocking season finale when Loki finds himself in a battle for the soul of the Time Variance Authority. Along with Mobius, Hunter B-15 and a team of new and returning characters, Loki navigates an ever-expanding and increasingly dangerous multiverse in search of Sylvie, Judge Renslayer, Miss Minutes and the truth of what it means to possess free will and glorious purpose. 

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “Episode 5 of Loki: Season 2 is a unique, thrilling portrait of Loki rocketing through the multiverse, paying for his past mistakes; it offsets Marvel’s other tedious TV projects with action and vivacity. It didn’t disappoint my expectations, and I’m sure it won’t let down ardent Marvel fans, those binging the show, or others looking for an episode to catch on Disney+.” Tiana S. adds, “Loki: Season 2, Episode 3, 1893 is the climax episode that will keep viewers entertained. Filled with action, time travel, plot twists and dramatic irony, this is one of the most engaging episodes. Gavin S. wraps it up with, “I really enjoyed the new season of Loki because of the CGI, the acting, the time manipulation in the show and the messages in the show. This series is kid-friendly with some moderate violence and could also be of interest to adults as well.” See his full review below.

Loki, Season 2 Episode 5
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Episode 5 of Loki: Season 2 is a unique, thrilling portrait of Loki rocketing through the multiverse, paying for his past mistakes; it offsets Marvel’s other tedious TV projects with action and vivacity. It didn’t disappoint my expectations, and I’m sure it won’t let down ardent Marvel fans, those binging the show, or others looking for an episode to catch on Disney+.

Loki: Season 2 picks up with Loki  (Tom Hiddleston) searching for the soul of the Time Variance Authority, an authority dedicated to preserving the Sacred Timeline. In Episode 5, he’s focused on using his almost-funny time-slipping abilities to get to all the people who were at the Time Variance Authority when wires were crossed. None of them recognize him, and Loki can’t stop slipping into new times and locations. For example, he sees Mobius (Owen Wilson) selling jet skis as a middle-aged dad in Cleveland, Ohio, in 2022. The God of Mischief assembles a team and tries to earn their trust. Perhaps it’s because I was entering this episode blind, but the plot seems extremely complex for the first half of the episode as I pieced things together; luckily, things were much easier to understand after establishing some context.

In Season 2, the stakes are elevated, and the writing is super strong; I was glued to the screen throughout the 45-minute Episode 5. The visual effects are very realistic, as are the practical sets — the color-correction across timelines differs, but it adds to the aesthetic of each character whom Loki is trying to find. The cinematography is wonderful, with lots of close-ups and medium shots to capture Tom Hiddleston’s emotions, along with those of the other characters. Mentioning the cast, all skillfully carry the complex plot, which could have become overwhelming. Tom Hiddleston is one of my favorite actors – the lovable yet full-of-himself Norse god Loki. Ke Huy Quan as OB, the techie trying to help Loki, is another favorite I didn’t expect; his earnest effort to help and bumbling personality go together wonderfully. Owen Wilson as Mobius adds a wonderful comedic tint to the episode, with physical comedy (miming that he’ll call the police on Loki when he first arrives), zingers, and more subtle lines (He remarks with a bewildered expression that when Loki time-slips, “it looks like you’re being born, or dying – or both at the same time.”). Overall, a wonderful package.

This episode of the show promotes teamwork and taking responsibility to solve problems when they arise. Loki may be the God of Mischief, but he takes a remarkable amount of accountability to restore the TVA and works with every character across timelines. Loki’s time-slipping can feel a little bit like a jump scare, with his face and body contorting and some demonic noises accompanying it, so parents with young children might want to tell them to brace themselves.

Loki: Season 2, Episode 5 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Loki Season 2 is playing exclusively on Disney+ now, with new episodes weekly.

Loki: Season 2, Episode 3, 1893
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Loki: Season 2, Episode 3, 1893 is the climax episode that will keep viewers entertained. Filled with action, time travel, plot twists and dramatic irony, this is one of the most engaging episodes.

This episode continues Loki’s (Tom Hiddleston) journey at the TVA with Mobius (Owen Wilson), but it travels back in time to visit another variant of “He Who Remains,” named Victor Timely (Jonathan Majors) in 1893, who, after being given a TVA notebook by Ravonna (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) and the rouge cartoon clock, Miss Minutes (Tara Strong), proceeds to work on various invention prototypes. This leads to a feud between the many teams in a battle of their wants and needs from this new “He Who Remains” variant. You’ll have to watch to see how the story unfolds.

I love seeing Jonathan Majors as the “He Who Remains” variant. His character’s stutter is realistic, adds depth to his role while he gives an incredible performance. It is hard for me to even believe it’s him. The costumes are also amazing. When the present-day characters travel to 1893 their outfits change to reflect the new era.

The special effects of characters like Miss Minutes’ and Loki’s powers are mind-blowing. Keep in mind this episode is pretty lengthy, but it doesn’t feel like it, at all. It’s incredible how the writers can stray from a typical Loki storyline and still make it engaging and entertaining. Music also plays a big part in this show, especially in relation to the different time periods and the action scenes. And keeping with the time travel, even the regular Marvel intro is updated with the sounds of classic piano tunes, which is really creative!

This episode touches on believing in yourself, finding where you belong, and trusting in others. This episode shows many examples of these messages from Victor Timely presenting all his new ideas to the times when evil strikes and betrayal occurs. The only scene that is somewhat inappropriate is one where Miss Minutes tries to flirt with Mr. Timely.

Loki: Season 2, Episode 3,1893 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18. You can watch it on Disney+ now and new episodes release every Thursday.

Loki Season 2, Episode 4
By Gavin S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Loki Season 2, Episode 4 is a new fun, adventurous and action-packed experience for those who have already seen the first season as well as those who are just beginning to watch the show. I really enjoyed the new season of Loki because of the CGI, the acting, the time manipulation in the show and the messages in the show. This series is kid-friendly with some moderate violence and could also be of interest to adults as well.

The storyline follows the mercurial villain, Loki (Tom Hiddleston). Along with Mobius (Owen Wilson), Sylvie (Sophia Di Martino) and a team of new and returning characters, Loki tries to stop the temporal loom from exploding and destroying not only the TVA (Time Variance Authority), but also a big fraction of the quantum realm with it. Throughout his journey he makes new friends and meets new enemies. Once he and his team begin their mission to prevent the explosion of the temporal loom, something horrible happens, something so horrible that it would change their lives forever.

This new episode is phenomenal, and I enjoyed it a lot, primarily because of the CGI. The CGI makes everything like space debris and the particles flying around in the quantum realm look so realistic. Another thing I really enjoyed about this episode is the acting. The cast play their roles so well and put on terrific performances. Additionally, the time manipulation is absolutely mind blowing. In one scene we see Loki talking to Sylvie, and when Sylvie goes to the next floor, she sees present day Loki zapping another Loki from a different timeframe. This scene is the icing on the cake for me. I like how this show is kid-friendly but can easily interest some adults as well. 

Although there are many messages this series portrays, the one that I really like and rings very true to life is that the most valuable thing a person can spend is time, whether it’s time with family, time at work, or time alone. Be forewarned that it does contain moderate violence, some cursing, and some alcohol use.

Loki Season 2, Episode 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available now on Disney+ so be sure to check it out. See ya!

One-of-a-Kind Marcie follows Marcie, an introvert who loves her solitude but also enjoys helping her friends. During the school golf championship, Marcie assists Peppermint Patty as her caddie, offering thoughtful and deliberate advice to help her win. Meanwhile, back at school, Marcie is nominated for class president and starts to observe other friends and classmates needing help — from traffic jams in the hallway to not having enough to share with everyone at lunch. Full of great ideas, Marcie wants to offer help but struggles to share them in a way that doesn’t force her to be in the spotlight. She is eventually empowered to buck other people’s expectations and embrace her own unique way of doing things — allowing her to help her friends in her own way out of the spotlight.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tiana S. comments, “In the new and first feature film about the infamous and brilliant Marcie from the Peanuts gang, the true essence of the beloved character is revealed. It’s quite different from the style and messages of previous Peanuts films but still with the look and feel we’ve come to love of the classic franchise.” See her full review and interview with producer Charles Schultz and director, Raymond Persi.

Snoopy Presents: One-Of-A-Kind Marcie
By Tiana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-kind Marcie is truly one of a kind! In the new and first feature film about the infamous and brilliant Marcie from the Peanuts gang, the true essence of the beloved character is revealed. It’s quite different from the style and messages of previous Peanuts films but still with the look and feel we’ve come to love of the classic franchise.

In Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie, Marcie (Arianna McDonald), the main character, is an introvert who struggles with using all her amazing ideas to help solve problems for her friends and classmates on the big stage … from wanting to solve the pizza shortage at her school, to helping Peppermint Patty (Lexi Perri) with playing golf. Peppermint Patty suggests Marcie run for Class President since she has such great ideas; however, since Marcie is too shy, she doesn’t want to do it. Throughout the film, we get to see the challenges Marcie faces while trying to juggle being an introvert and wanting to help everyone.

My favorite aspect of this film is what the director Raymond S. Persi refers to as “still picture” scenes, which are used to show Marcie’s feeling when talking about not wanting to run for Class President. She goes into her own little world surrounded by black shadows that appear to be “coming for her.” This film is unique because the other films tend to focus on Charlie Brown, the whole gang, or characters who are popular, special events, and holidays. Instead this one highlights a personality type and Marcie’s challenges. I love that the Executive Producer and son of Charles M. Schultz, Mr. Craig Shultz, drew inspiration for the film from the movie Hidden Figures and wanted to make a film about a smart girl with big ideas that just needed a way to show them off!

The message of this film is to just be yourself, be one-of-a-kind. Even if you are introverted, you can do anything and even if you feel overwhelmed, that’s okay. You can find other ways to get your ideas out there! In the film, Marcie speaks about this multiple times to herself and to her friends. Don’t let your personality type stop you in life.

I give Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-kind Marcie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. You can watch it on Apple TV+ starting August 18, 2023.

After an epic summer at Camp Shallow Lake, the Wildcats return to East High where they prepare a stage production of “High School Musical 3: Senior Year.” But plans are disrupted when Principal Gutierrez announces that Disney has decided to make the long-awaited “High School Musical 4: The Reunion” movie on location at their beloved high school.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 is a great new season to add to the previous three. The series features many returning characters that are known and loved, as well as some new additions to the cast.” Madeleine H. adds, “I love High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4. It’s filled with engaging content and storylines that keeps you hooked. The characters and themes are easy to enjoy and understand, especially if you are a High School Musical fan and even if you are new to the series.”  See their full reviews below.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 is a great new season to add to the previous three. The series features many returning characters that are known and loved, as well as some new additions to the cast.

Season 4 has the East High students putting on a production of High School Musical 3: Senior Year. However things take a twist when it’s revealed by a famous couple that they, along with some of the original cast of the High School Musical trilogy are going to be making High School Musical 4 right in the East High School. With tensions brewing and the movie crew taking over the school, the East High students are in for a wild ride this season. 

The twists and turns that happen throughout this season are amazingly captivating. Every time I think things can’t get crazier, they do. The relationship between Ricky (Joshua Bassett) and Gina (Sofia Wylie) is very cute and one of the best parts of this season. Actually all of the relationship and friendship dynamics in the show are very cute and scripted. Another cool part of this season is the return of lots of alumni from the original series, including Corbin Bleu, Lucas Grabeel and the legendary Alyson Reed. The whole cast excels in their performances of their characters — the dynamics of the various relationships are well defined and make sense. For example the relationship between characters Ashlyn (Julia Lester) and Maddox (Saylor Bell Cruda) starts as a platonic friendship with lots of texting yet seems to be developing into more. 

The show is filmed again at the iconic East High School, which is an appealing part of the series that we all relate to now. One of my all-time favorite parts of this season is the creation of an entirely fake show called Mark and Spark with its own intro and theme song.  A new character, Mack (Mathew Sato), comes to East High to star in High School Musical 4 and Mark and Spark is the show that made him famous when he was young.  The show features many revised versions of Disney songs such as Now or Never from High School Musical 3 as well as lots of new original songs that are very catchy.  One of my favorites is the song in episode one that Ricky and Gina write together about their relationship.  Other returning actors include Dara Reneé, Julia Lester, Frankie Rodriguez, Kate Reinders, Liamani Segura and many more.

The message of this season is to be in the moment and don’t get caught up in the past. It is a continuing message throughout the entire series.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. The new season releases all episodes August 9, 2023 on Disney+.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4
By Madeleine H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I love High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4. It’s filled with engaging content and storylines that keep you hooked. The characters and themes are easy to enjoy and understand, especially if you are a High School Musical fan and even if you are new to the series.

The new series joins the East High drama club’s return from a hectic summer camp when things take an unexpected turn. The original cast of High School Musical, the movie, arrives to introduce a new movie idea with the East High drama club included in the cast. The drama club will also stage an adaptation of one of the HSM films. The plot moves quickly and is fun and easy to follow with some unexpected surprises along the way. Each episode recaps the previous storyline and keeps it going with new twists, subplots and characters that make them easy to watch and watch again. 

The camera work with smooth zooms and clear focus on the actors enhances the viewing experience. I love how the costumes match the vibe of average teens, featuring popular brands and fresh styles. I appreciate the attention to detail with the set design; they truly reflect high schoolers rooms from the neat and organized to the truly messy. I couldn’t help but enjoy the music. The background music really sets the mood and moves the story along.  But it is the cast’s songs that really tell the story with well-rounded lyrics and fun-to-listen-to melodies.  I really enjoyed the harmonies of the Halloween special; full of fun and a great surprise to start off the first episode of the season—an excellent beat. The new main character Gina (Sofia Wylie) shows a deep emotional side while remaining strong and confident. I enjoy how relatable her character is.  The scriptwriter did a strong job with fast-moving dialogue that is witty, complex and heartfelt. The writers create a series that entertains, with a story inside of a story, without being confusing. My favorite part is when Gina meets Mark (Matthew Sato) her childhood crush and her current boyfriend Ricky (Joshua Bassett) jealously and comically tries to prove he’s better than him.

The message of this season is about taking things slowly, not rushing into decisions, and figuring things out calmly.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Season 4 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Season 4 releases August 9, 2023 on Disney+.