KIDS FIRST! News

After leaving the business one year earlier, battle-scarred stuntman Colt Seavers springs back into action when the star of a big studio movie suddenly disappears. As the mystery surrounding the missing actor deepens, Colt soon finds himself ensnared in a sinister plot that pushes him to the edge of a fall more dangerous than any stunt.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kendall B. comments, “The Fall Guy contains all the elements necessary in a wonderful movie such as comedy, romance, mystery, and most of all: action. With something for lovers of every movie genre, The Fall Guy is a great film to go watch.” Mikella G. adds, “The Fall Guy is an action packed blockbuster, filled with intensity and suspense. I really like this film because, despite the thrill, it is comedic, and romantic all at the same time.” Daniel S. adds, “The Fall Guy is an absolute blast of film— incredible on the technical side, with great stunt work and action set pieces.” Arjun N. wraps it up with, “The Fall Guy is a love letter to the overlooked art of stunt work. While it may not be anything groundbreaking, the explosive mix of practical effects, comedy, and romance makes this an old-school summer blockbuster that I loved. This is a crowd-pleasing film that never takes itself too seriously.” See their full reviews below.

The Fall Guy
By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

The Fall Guy contains all the elements necessary in a wonderful movie such as comedy, romance, mystery, and most of all: action. With something for lovers of every movie genre, The Fall Guy is a great film to go watch.

The story follows Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling), a retired stuntman who has come out of hiding to work on a movie in hopes of rekindling a year-old love story with the director Jody (Emily Blunt). After discovering Jody has left their relationship in the past, Colt is told that the lead actor Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) has been involved with bad people and is sent on a mission by Tom’s producer, Gail (Hannah Waddingham), to find him and, although it won’t be easy, he can hopefully save Jody’s movie, while getting her to fall back in love with him.

All aspects of this movie are fantastic – something that really stands out to me is the music. Part of the reason it’s noticeable is because of the iconic tracks on this film. Viewers of all ages will recognize some of their favorite tunes while watching The Fall Guy. Not only is the music popular, but the use of these songs is unexpected while being perfect at the same time. An example of this is Kiss’ “I Was Made For Lovin’ You,” which can be heard throughout the movie. It’s used in many different situations and you can tell the people behind the film knew what they were doing, choosing this as the main track for the film, because it goes so smoothly with the love story behind the mystery and comedy parts of The Fall Guy. The multi-genre part of this movie is also fantastic. Every type of movie lover can find something to enjoy while watching.

Ryan Gosling’s laidback comedic personality really shines in his performance of Colt Seavers. Throughout the movie the audience will watch moments that are especially hysterical due to Gosling’s acting. Gosling and Blunt’s quirky, but loving chemistry is so entertaining. Every scene they are in together left me viewers laughing, crying, and swooning. My favorite scene includes a cameo with some Taylor Swift music when Colt replays his relationship with Jody in his head in a little highlight reel to “All Too Well.” Jody sees him crying in his car and goes to check on him. Obviously, Colt denies the accusations.

The message of this film is that there’s always more than meets the eye. This message can be applied to many different situations, both in life and in the film. Colt talks about how stunt people are the ones who take the falls for the actors and the actors are the ones who win awards and get to be in advertisements. Somebody watching the film would never notice a stuntman because that’s his job, to go unnoticed. One reason that Gosling made this film is to appeal to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to establish an award for stunt people.

I give The Fall Guy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It releases in theaters May 3, 2024.

The Fall Guy
By Daniel S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

The Fall Guy is an absolute blast of film— incredible on the technical side, with great stunt work and action set pieces.

A big-screen remake of the 1980’s television series of the same name, The Fall Guy follows Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling), a stuntman who retires after a near-fatal accident. After being encouraged to return to the job for his ex-girlfriend’s new film by big time producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham), he accepts. Little does he know, he is tasked with solving the disappearance of the lead actor he doubles for, Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). If he wants any chance of rekindling his love with director Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), Colt must unravel Tom’s sudden vanishing so that production can continue.

The Fall Guy’s story unfortunately falls a bit flat, due to its overused story beats, and predictable twists. The story itself is completely distinct, but it consists of so much that is all too familiar. Some of the situations and surprises—down to even some lines of dialogue—feel unoriginal and foreseeable. The love story between Colt and Jody is especially stereotypical. The movie is mostly style over substance, but does it work? Answer: it does! The Fall Guy was made as a love letter to the dedication, hard work, and talent of all the regularly overlooked stunt workers in Hollywood. The film highlights stunt doubles, stunt coordinators, and more, in a self-aware commentary about audiences’—and even Hollywood’s—neglect of stunt people. It’s only fitting that The Fall Guy itself contains exceptionally impressive stunt work. Every fight scene is brilliantly choreographed, and the car stunts are astonishing. We get a peek behind the curtain at the true care that goes into this art.

Speaking of car stunts, much of the action in this film involves characters in, or on, racing cars. These action scenes are so well executed—they feel grand in scope and adrenaline-inducing, and just so much fun. They are explosive, and encapsulate the true entertainment value of the action genre.

Although The Fall Guy’s story is somewhat of a letdown, it is an enjoyable blast due to its stunts and action. With a great love story, action, cast, and message of respect for stunt teams. The Fall Guy has something for everyone. Parents should be aware that the film contains violence and profanity.

I give The Fall Guy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  Catch The Fall Guy in theaters on May 3, 2024.

The Fall Guy
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

The Fall Guy is an action packed blockbuster, filled with intensity and suspense. I really like this film because, despite the thrill, it is comedic and romantic all at the same time. There is a little bit of each genre, which makes it extremely enjoyable and helped keep my attention the entire time.

The Fall Guy is a film that highlights Stunt doubles, and brings them their much deserved attention. In this movie, Colt (Ryan Gosling) is known as one of the top stuntmen in the industry, but unfortunately he suffers a severe accident. After a year off, he is asked to join the set of a big studio movie, when the leading actor goes missing. Colt is thrown with numerous obstacles, and is put on a crazy journey, but in the end would do anything for its director and his ex-love Jody (Emily Blunt).

Major standouts in this film are the stunts. Ryan Gosling and his stunt doubles perform extremely high demanding stunts that completely elevate this film. The risk of each one had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The car flip stunt, specifically, is extremely entertaining. It really helps show what the character, Colt, is capable of, and just how impressive his skills really are. I also enjoyed the locations. The big studio movie takes place in Australia so viewers get to experience the beautiful architecture of Sydney, as well as the desert and mountain sides. The major scenes take place in the sand dunes, and it’s really cool to see the behind the scenes aspect of a film with that large of a production.

Lastly, I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline. It is creative and one of its kind. Stuntmen are rarely discussed in films, and definitely don’t get the appreciation they deserve. This movie brings the spotlight onto them, and does this in such a unique way. Witnessing their work up close, and just how demanding it is, has brought me a new found respect for this talent.

The message of The Fall Guy is to always put yourself first, and that you can’t always trust the people you think that you can. You should be aware that one reason Gosling made this film is to get the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to add a category for stunt people.

I give The Fall Guy 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Fall Guy opens in theaters on May 3, 2024.

The Fall Guy
By Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 22

The Fall Guy is a love letter to the overlooked art of stunt work. While it may not be anything groundbreaking, the explosive mix of practical effects, comedy, and romance makes this an old-school summer blockbuster that I loved. This is a crowd-pleasing film that never takes itself too seriously.

This storyline follows down-and-out stuntman Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling) after he’s enlisted by his ex-girlfriend Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt) to find the missing star of her directorial debut. On one side, lies his quest to win back his ex after abandoning her following a traumatic stunt mishap, but on the other lies a more urgent quest to find his colleague and lead actor Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) amidst a criminal conspiracy. Equipped with only brains and brawn, Colt must rise to the occasion for a new chance in life. Can he win back his ex and find the star of the movie? There’s only one jump to find out.

The cast is full of mainstream talents that carry the screen with their comedic and physical prowess. Ryan Gosling, as Colt Seavers, cements that he’s more than just a stoic and silent figure. Just like he did as Ken in Barbie, Gosling showcases a natural sense of humor that he’s truly grown into. All the while, he impresses with his stunts with each fall – his success is a big part of the film’s charm. Still, it’s his love story with Emily Blunt, as Jody Moreno, that is the heart of the film. This helps cover for some of the film’s opening jokes that don’t stick their landing so well. It starts out a bit slow, but thankfully kicks into high gear quickly with an effective blend of action and comedy. The criminal conspiracy overtakes the second half of the film presenting real and raw stakes; however, the mystery surrounding Aaron Taylor-Johnson, as Tom Ryder, is met with his bizarrely comedic presence. He might just be the highlight here as he hams the role up without ever seeming artificial. I didn’t know whether to be concerned by his mysterious notes on his fridge or laugh. These characters are nicely rounded out by a terrific supporting cast. Winston Duke, as Dan, provides a true friend for Colt as well as an encyclopedic knowledge of iconic film references. Stephanie Hsu, as Alma, helps Colt on his quest with her adorable dog. Hannah Waddingham, as Gail, weaves her real-life experience as a television presenter with her character’s larger-than-life screen presence.

Lastly, a surprise cameo makes the cast come full circle in an unexpectedly hilarious manner. David Leitch helms the direction with fluid stunts that flow like water. They embody the feeling of being on a rollercoaster on a nice summer day. In particular, one sequence stands out where Colt is attacked by gun-toting henchmen. It’s a man versus a system as he employs creative use of his mobility and surroundings to evade bullets and manipulate their guns against each other.

The film’s message is that true love prevails. Although Colt estranged himself from Jody, it’s their communication that binds his mistakes and his regrets push forward his asking for another chance. It shows that anyone can make mistakes in love, but mistakes can be forgiven with a genuine attempt to change. After all, love is not a game; instead, it’s a poetic act that can face and overcome any obstacles. Despite the film’s playfulness, be aware that there is lots of violence, strong language, and infrequent drug content.

I give The Fall Guy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases on May 3, 2024 in theaters. Be sure to check it out in theaters.

Hard Miles tells the uplifting true story of the bicycling team at Rite of Passage’s RidgeView Academy, a medium-security correctional school in Colorado. The film follows beleaguered coach Greg Townsend (Matthew Modine) as he rounds up an unlikely crew of incarcerated students for a seemingly impossible bike ride from Denver to the Grand Canyon.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ariel K. comments, “I really love the film Hard Miles because it is very inspiring, touching, and has a funny twist to it. All in all, this film is great for family movie night. The film’s message is ‘never stop something until you finish it.’”

Hard Miles
By Ariel K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I really love the film Hard Miles because it is very inspiring, touching, and has a funny twist to it.

The story follows four teenage convicts who have lost hope for a “normal future” and are trying to get their “second chance” by showing their motivation to be better. The prison social worker (Matthew Modine) takes them on a 1,000 mile bike riding journey to the Grand Canyon. This journey is not easy, but it makes them discover who they are, what they are made of, and the importance of friendship and teamwork.

All in all, this film is great for family movie night. Hard Miles is very inspiring – it features violent teenagers that have had a tough life and they learn how to work together as a team and to cross hundreds of miles on a self-made bike. While I was watching, all I wanted to do was to get out into the sweet, cool, fresh air and ride my bike. There is also a side story regarding a father-son relationship that adds to the complexity of their story and contributes to a very heartfelt scene at the end of the film.

I found this movie to be very funny. For example, a scene that made me laugh out loud, was when the teenagers, who were willing to do practically anything not to return back home and move to another school, pop the wheels of the van that was supposed to take them back. After a staff member finally fixes it, she finds another “nice surprise” waiting for her in the van. Scenes like this happen throughout the film. In addition, knowing this movie is based on a true story really made me excited and appreciate bicycles. The scenery really stands out and makes it feel like you’re riding with them. The costumes go great with the storyline and even contribute to the movie’s antagonists’ turning point.

The film’s message is “never stop something until you finish it.” There are many more life lessons and messages all to be learned by watching this film. Be forewarned that this film has a little violence and some profanity.

I give Hard Miles 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released in theaters April 19, 2024.

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.

Soleil Le Claire, a girl who lives for horror, accidentally breaks a spell on the Tree of Life and unleashes an ancient evil. The spirit of Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen of New Orleans, puts her and four other kids in charge of saving the city from Belial, an ancient demon who feeds on fear. Luckily, they’re not alone, as each kid gets a special gift from the voodoo spirits called Loa. Eventually they learn their town’s biggest secret: Vampires, rougarous, ghosts, monsters and demons are real and have secretly lived among humans for decades. The Krewe will have to hone their powers, figure out what Belial’s up to and keep the peace between creatures as they go head-to-head with local legends from the underworld.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Nyara A. comments, “This suspenseful series depicts the beautifully animated journey of a group of teens fighting monsters and just being teenagers. The crafting of the monsters and the music work together harmoniously to frighten not only the characters but the viewers as well.” See her full review and Ari S.’s cast interview below.

Fright Krewe Season 2
By Nyara A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

The suspenseful 10 episode series Fright Krewe Season 2 depicts the beautifully animated journey of a group of teens fighting monsters and just being teenagers. Their passionate acting combined with the evocative animation brings the characters to life. The crafting of the monsters and the music work together in harmony to frighten not only the characters but the viewers as well.

The story follows a group of misfit teenage friends, named the Krewe, who secretly fight the evil that threatens their world. Soleil (Sydney Mikayla), the protagonist and leader of the Krewe, is at the center of the nightmare that threatens the city of New Orleans. Belial (Jacques Colimon), the antagonist, summons monster after monster to combat the Krewe. Each Krewe member has special power that they must hone in order to save themselves, their city, and all those who are possessed by the evil spirits that threaten them. Will Soleil and her friends successfully ward off the demons, or will they fall into the possession of wickedness?

Sydney Mikayla’s portrayal of Soleil’s courage is beautifully balanced with her portrayal of Soleil’s love of all things horror.  Another key member of the Krewe, Missy, is played by Grace Lu whose vocal style conveys power and empathy at the same time. Terrance Little Gardenheigh, who plays Pat, and his co-stars create a wonderful ensemble to bring life to the rest of the Krewe. They speak just as teenagers would, making the Krewe easy to root for. The film mixes a modern realistic character animation style with a more classical animated background style, resulting in a unique look that viewers are drawn to. The monsters are otherworldly and inhuman, making them creepy enough for the audience to feel the fear behind the screen. The classical music and sound effects add an element of suspense during the climax of each episode when the Krewe fights the evil monsters.

This film’s message centers around community and friendship, emphasizing the need to maintain our relationships through the hardships of life. There are consequences to our actions, and we must put friendship and love before all else that may tempt us. Note there is some graphic violence in the film and scary creatures.

Fright Krewe Season 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Hulu and Peacock March 29, 2024.