Quality Children's Entertainment Family Movie Reviews

Prehistoric Planet 2 * This Season Unveils New Species And Habitats Which Occupied Ancient Earth 66 Million Years Ago

May 22nd, 2023

Experience the wonders of our world like never before in this epic docuseries from Jon Favreau and the producers of “Planet Earth.” “Prehistoric Planet” season two continues to bring Earth’s history to life like never before as the series presents new dinosaurs, new habitats and new scientific discoveries while taking viewers around the world in an epic five-night adventure. With new dinosaurs like the Tarchia, one of the largest Ankylosauri, to returning fan-favorites like the Tyrannosaurus Rex, and many more, “Prehistoric Planet” returns with an all-new season of prehistoric wonders.  

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Dominic D. comments, “Prepare to be wowed by an incredible new documentary mini-series to be released this month. Back for its second season, Prehistoric Planet 2, produced by the world-renowned team from BBC’s Natural History Unit, unveils new species and habitats which occupied ancient Earth 66 million years ago.” See his full review below.

Prehistoric Planet 2
By Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Prepare to be wowed by an incredible new documentary mini-series to be released this month. Back for its second season, Prehistoric Planet 2, produced by the world-renowned team from BBC’s Natural History Unit, unveils new species and habitats which occupied ancient Earth 66 million years ago. I was really looking forward to watching this expansive series with its advanced technology and I was not disappointed. 

The show takes viewers back millions of years to examine a variety of new species within their unique habitats.  Based on new evidence provided by paleontologists and other experts within the field, these filmmakers are able to authentically recreate the Jurassic world and highlight the many interactions within and between species, and show how these magnificent creatures needed to fight so hard for their survival. This impressively animated series brings Earth’s history to life with such extraordinary detail. 

Prehistoric Planet 2 is an educational masterpiece! There is so much to appreciate in this series.  The CGI is state of the art; the CGI images are, by far, the best I’ve seen. The highly technical scenes are so dramatic and bring great adventure into our homes. Although the information portrayed by the biodiverse species in each episode has great merit from new found evidence by archaeologists, a lot of guesses and inferring goes into the depiction of these creatures. The information about these species makes perfect sense and I was truly inspired by each episode.  Narrated by beloved 97-year-old David Attenborough who excels as he explains to viewers the lives of so many unique species. He brings great excitement and emotion to Prehistoric Planet 2.  Parents need to be aware that some of the graphic content regarding survival strategies may be too intense for younger viewers. 

The message throughout each episode of the show is about understanding the biological dynamics of our ancient Earth.  We all find dinosaurs fascinating, but there is much more to be learned about their relationships, adaptations and survival mechanisms.  Gaining knowledge about past species not only helps us better understand their existence on Earth and it also helps us build more complete ancestral connections to species living today. Education is priceless!

Prehistoric Planet 2 gets5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Prehistoric Planet 2 releases on Apple TV+ May 22, 2023 

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A Feel Good Comedy That Puts You In A Happy Optimistic Mood

May 13th, 2023

The highly anticipated sequel follows our four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls’ trip they never had. When things go off the rails and secrets are revealed, their relaxing vacation turns into a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country adventure.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “Book Club: The Next Chapter is a feel good, comedic film. It’s entertaining and light hearted, putting you in a happy optimistic mood. I really enjoy the beautiful scenery shown throughout the film. As the four friends travel throughout Italy, we see the sights of Rome, Venice and Tuscany.” Julie S. adds, “What a delightful romp this is! I came away from watching it with an extra spring in my step and a sense of joie de vivre. The cast truly had a good time and it’s contagious. It’s in theaters now, so drop what you’re doing and catch a matinee today. You’ll be glad you did.” See their full reviews below.

Book Club: The Next Chapter
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST!, Film Critic, age 17

(l-r) Diane Keaton (Diane), Jane Fonda (Vivian), Candice Bergen (Sharon) Mary Steenburgen (Carol) in BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER, Focus Features. Credit: © 2023 FIFTH SEASON, LLC

Book Club: The Next Chapter is a feel good, comedic film. It’s entertaining and light hearted, putting you in a happy optimistic mood.

Book Club: The Next Chapter, a sequel to Book Club, brings together four best friends, who finally reunite after being in quarantine. In order to celebrate Vivian’s (Jane Fonda) big news and go on their long awaited girls’ trip, the group departs for Italy. While on their trip, they encounter many obstacles and surprises, providing the ladies a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Director/Co-Writer/Producer Bill Holderman and Mary Steenburgen, Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda and Don Johnson on set at BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER, Focus Features. Credit: Fabio Zayed / © 2023 FIFTH SEASON, LLC

I really enjoy the beautiful scenery shown throughout the film. As the four friends travel throughout Italy, we see the sights of Rome, Venice and Tuscany. Most of the movie was filmed on location, which is an incredible aspect that really elevates the film. Everything is so colorful and eye-catching, which definitely made me much more engaged. When I look at a fun and exciting scene, I’m automatically more interested in what I’m watching. This movie definitely has that effect. Additionally, the characters really stand out. Each of the women has such a distinct personality.  For example, Diane (Diane Keaton) is more reluctant and very set in her ways. Carol (Mary Steenburgen) is very optimistic and wants to be adventurous. Then there’s Vivian who is finally stepping out of her comfort zone and taking a leap of faith, and lastly Sharon (Candice Bergen) who knows exactly what she wants, and won’t let anyone change her opinions. All the characters have different personalities but they all cohesively work together.

(l-r) Mary Steenburgen (Carol), Jane Fonda (Vivian), Diane Keaton (Diane) Candice Bergen (Sharon) in BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER, Focus Features. Credit: © 2023 FIFTH SEASON, LLC

Each actor excels in her role and really brings her character to life for a second time in this sequel. The strong chemistry and friendship between these women is evident, and really made me feel so fulfilled and happy to watch them on their adventure. The storyline is a lot of fun and has many dynamics. While the women are in Italy they encounter many rough patches. They constantly have to reroute their trip, and even run into people and memories that slow them down a little. However, they still come out stronger than ever in the end. This film is exciting to watch, and definitely held my interest the entire time.


The message of Book Club: The Next Chapter is a reminder to take risks and live life to the fullest because you never know when you might no longer have that opportunity. Be aware there is some light profanity.


I give Book Club: The Next Chapter 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters May 12, 2023.

Book Club: The Next Chapter
By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

(l-r) Diane Keaton (Diane), Jane Fonda (Vivian), Candice Bergen (Sharon) Mary Steenburgen (Carol) in BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER, Focus Features. Credit: Riccardo Ghilardi / © 2023 FIFTH SEASON, LLC

What a delightful romp this is! The four life-long friends Viv, Diane, Sharon and Carol are played by superstars Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Diane Keaton and Mary Steenburgen run away with the show. We see how their friendship has persevered the ups and downs of life for decades, through marriage and divorce, child-bearing, work ups and downs… they support each other unconditionally.

In this sequel to the 2018 comedy Book Club, they are reunited after the pandemic and, after learning that Viv plans to marry, decide to take a bachelorette trip to Italy – a destination they’ve had on the horizon for some time.

The script is filled with silly jokes and passion for all that Italy has to offer – food, wine, landscapes and beautiful men.

(l-r) Mary Steenburgen (Carol), Candice Bergen as Sharon, Diane Keaton as Diane, Jane Fonda as Vivian in BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER, Focus Features, Credit: Riccardo Ghilardi / © 2023 FIFTH SEASON, LLC

The significant others of the four, played by Craig T. Nelson, Don Johnson, Giancarlo Giannini and Andy Garcia are equally entertaining. If this doesn’t make you want to pack your bags and head to Rome or Tuscany, then your spirit definitely needs a jump start.

I give book Club: the Next Chapter 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults, due to some mild profanity. It’s in theaters now, so drop what you’re doing and catch a matinee today. You’ll be glad you did.

I came away from watching this with an extra spring in my step and a sense of joie de vivre. The cast truly had a good time and it’s contagious.

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Captivating And Inspirational Documentary That Highlights An Important Story And Really Connected With Me

May 12th, 2023

An intimate portrait of a misunderstood American icon, this emotional and uplifting documentary about Yogi Berra takes us beyond the caricatures and “Yogisms,” and into the heart of a sports legend whose unparalleled accomplishments on the baseball diamond were often overshadowed by his off-the-field persona.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “It Ain’t Over is a captivating inspirational documentary that highlights an important story, and really connected with me. I definitely felt moved and more knowledgeable afterwards.” See her full review below.

It Ain’t Over
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST!, age 16

It Ain’t Over is a captivating inspirational documentary that highlights an important story, and really connected with me. I definitely felt moved and more knowledgeable afterwards.

This film tells the story of Yogi Berra (Lawrence Peter Berra), an Italian immigrant who had a talent for baseball from a young age. Although he had an outstanding ability to catch balls, he was extremely unappreciated in the sports industry when he first started out. Yogi didn’t exactly fit the image of a stereotypical NBA star at the time, but he didn’t let that stop him. After many rocky patches, Yogi eventually found a home with the New York Yankees, where he managed to work his way to a top position, and became one of the best players in baseball history.

I really appreciate the structure of the film; it’s easy to follow and gives a lot of insight about Yogi as a person. Throughout the film are interviews with people from Yogi’s life, including his close family and friends. These are people that knew him personally and their input helps create a strong foundation for the film. It helped me get a better understanding of who Yogi was, and the positive effect that he left on people. Additionally, the storytelling is strong.

The film incorporates so many important details of Yogi’s life in such an honest way. There are examples of people such as Jackie Robinson, who he really helped and respected. This documentary is going to make the world remember Yogi Berra in a positive and bright way, which defines who he was.

The cinematography is outstanding. I really enjoyed the incorporation of archival footage from Yogi’s life, along with present day videos that showcase the evolution of professional baseball. 

The film’s message is to always follow your dreams no matter what other people tell you.

I give It Ain’t Over 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in select theaters on May 12, 2023.

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Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 * The Perfect End To This Marvel Trilogy – An Emotional Journey And A Bit Of A Tearjerker

May 5th, 2023

In Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 our beloved band of misfits are settling into life on Knowhere. But it isn’t long before their lives are upended by the echoes of Rocket’s turbulent past. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him on a dangerous mission to save Rocket’s life—a mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the perfect end to this Marvel trilogy. It’s an emotional journey, and, for me, a bit of a tearjerker – bring some tissues.” Kendall B. adds, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a hilarious movie with a thrilling plot, funny one-liners, and incredible special effects. It’s a great movie that left me waiting for the next scene.” Emma D. adds, “Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 is a disappointing final installment of a beloved trilogy, largely due to a confusing plot and weird dialogue. Although the visuals are engaging, the film lacks the comedic element and enthusiasm of the first two.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 is an outstanding film. It’s filled with action and adventure, while still tackling important issues.”  See their full reviews below.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

(L-R): Pom Klementieff as Mantis, Dave Bautista as Drax, Chris Pratt as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, and Karen Gillan as Nebula in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the perfect end to this Marvel trilogy. It’s an emotional journey, and, for me, a bit of a tearjerker – bring some tissues. I connected strongly with the characters and throughout the movie deeply cared about them. I also love this movie because of the strong messages, astonishing CGI and the “marvelous” acting.

This movie switches between Rocket’s (Bradley Cooper) backstory and the mission to save Rocket embarked on by Star Lord/Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Groot (Vin Diesel), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Drax (Dace Bautista), and Mantis’ (Pom Klementieff). The new Gamora (Zoe Saldaña) also joins them, but she isn’t the same Gamora we knew. Can the Guardians save Rocket and the galaxy in time? Watch to find out!  As always, make sure to stay until the end of the credits!

(L-R): Will Poulter as Adam Warlock and Elizabeth Debicki as Ayesha in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

Guardians of the Galaxy is one of my favorite franchises within the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe), and director James Gunn and the actors are the biggest reasons why. Gunn has made these movies unique and distinct from the other Marvel movies. Although it’s still funny, this movie resonates emotionally with the audience more than the first two Guardians. You can feel the pain and traumatic experiences of the characters. Star Lord as Chris Pratt is perfect. I’ve never seen a role as good as this one for Pratt, and for me he will always be Peter Quill. Even though Rocket is completely CGI, Bradley Cooper’s voice performance makes me believe he is real. My favorite character is Drax (David Bautista) because he is very sweet and funny, and whenever he’s on screen, I enjoy it immensely.

The message of this movie is that friendship and teamwork are the most powerful forces in the galaxy. This movie contains some profanity, violence, and some gross scenes.

I give Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3  4 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Marvel and Guardians of the Galaxy fans will definitely enjoy this movie. It comes out in theaters on May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

(L-R): Dave Bautista as Drax and Pom Klementieff as Mantis in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a hilarious movie with a thrilling plot, funny one-liners, and incredible special effects. It’s a great movie that left me waiting for the next scene.

The story starts showing the Guardians living in harmony; however Rocket (Bradley Cooper) and Peter (Chris Pratt) have been kind of down lately.  Gamora (Zoe Saldana) is not remembering her past life after the events of the Infinity War, and Rocket remembering things about his old life before the Guardians and how horrible it was.  When a failed attempt by a new unknown superhero (Will Poulter) to take Rocket back to his creator, the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), Rocket is injured, and this brings him closer to death every second. After reuniting with Gamora, Peter is on a mission, along with Drax (Dave Bautista) and Mantis (Pom Klementieff) and, of course, everybody’s favorite plant, Groot (Vin Diesel), to save not only Rocket but the whole galaxy.

Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper) in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 MARVEL.

This film has many amazing assets with its strongest being the CGI. Throughout the movie we are treated to insane special effects, including ships flying throughout the galaxy. The incredibly realistic galaxy makes the movie so much fun to watch. The actors are all well cast. Rocket’s backstory is so perfectly executed and we learn why Rocket behaves the way he does during certain situations. The whole explanation brings tears to your eyes. Gamora and Peter’s relationship is explored as it jumps back into their love story, slowly hinting at a possible relationship in the future. My favorite characters are Drax and Mantis. The friendship between these too is so sweet and unbelievably hilarious. The two are always teasing each other and the dialogue between them is among the many notable highlights of this film. My favorite part of the movie is when the Guardians try to bring Rocket back to life and he reconnects with some of his old friends in his mind. It’s such a sentimental scene and changes the entire feeling of the movie, in a good way.

The film’s message is that sometimes friends can feel like family and that is worth fighting for. Throughout the film the Guardians stick together through difficult situations — all to save Rocket because he is one of their friends and they will do anything to save him. Peter tries to explain this to Gamora in one scene when she doesn’t understand why they will put their own lives in danger to save Rocket.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theatres May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3
By Emma D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

(L-R): Karen Gillan as Nebula, Chris Pratt as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, and Dave Bautista as Drax in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 is a disappointing final installment of a beloved trilogy, largely due to a confusing plot and weird dialogue. Although the visuals are engaging, the film lacks the comedic element and enthusiasm of the first two.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 picks up after the Guardians appearance in Thor: Love and Thunder and follows their struggle with the loss of Gamora (Zoe Saldana). Her loss has affected Peter (Chris Pratt) the most, and he struggles with depression, which negatively affects the group — and as a result they are lost when it comes to the future. When a man arrives to capture Rocket (Bradley Cooper), the gang has to fight to save his life and go deep into Rocket’s past, discovering things they never knew were possible.

The plot is confusing with too many details and unnecessary characters, which makes the story overly complicated. I often had to replay moments in my head to try to grasp what was going on.  Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) and his mom (Elizabeth Debicki), although quite entertaining, are irrelevant to the plot. Gamora also seems unimportant since the relationship status between Peter Quinn (Chris Pratt) and her has already been established in past films. Her absence would have made a more significant impact by showing how much her absence affects Peter and the group. The villain is the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), and although Iwuji is excellent in this role and can be truly terrifying, the character itself is pretty bland. It is hard to take him seriously when all of his actions, although sometimes gruesome, seem lackluster in comparison to previous Marvel villains.

Zoe Saldana as Gamora in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

The visual effects are stunning, and the scenes in space are breathtaking — I highly recommend watching it at the movie theater. However, some of the visual effects are a little too realistic, especially with the animals, and can be very uncomfortable to watch. The movie also misses the comedic element that I loved about the series, which is a shame since the actors are all hilarious. The soundtrack is fantastic and helps break up the more serious moments and serves as excellent background music for fight scenes.  I love all the interactions between the actors in the main group, as those are the most heartwarming and funny scenes. The best part of the movie is the ending, which is a perfect ending for the series.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 promotes the idea of friendship and fighting for the ones you love. The movie is more violent than most Marvel movies, which is something that parents should be aware of. The visual effects of the animals can be discomforting and a little scary. The film also addresses alcoholism and depression, which may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 gets 3 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel) in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 MARVEL.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 is an outstanding film. It’s filled with action and adventure, while still tackling important issues.

The storyline follows the Guardians for a third time as they reunite with Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and embark on their journey to save Rocket (Bradley Cooper). The crew goes through multiple rough patches when discovering Rocket’s past, and they learn that they must work together to defeat the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi lwuji).

(L-R): Miriam Shor as Recorder Vim, Chukwudi Iwuji as The High Evolutionary, and Nico Santos as Recorder Theel in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo by Jessica Miglio. © 2023 MARVEL.

A huge standout in this film is the soundtrack. Every song fits the moment perfectly and really gives a fun nostalgic feeling to the film. The track includes music from the Beastie Boys, Bruce Springsteen and more. Additionally, the cinematography really stands out. I enjoy the camera angles showing the High Evolutionary Corporation. They zoom into certain moments when baby Rocket is in his cage, and use different but intentional angles. Even the transitions from flashback moments to present time are smooth, and flow nicely. Plus, the visual effects are top notch. Every fight scene is attention grabbing, and very engaging. All the sound effects are so realistic. For example, even something as simple as someone chewing food, has top sound quality.

Additionally, there’s a moment where Nebula (Karen Gilman) pops her muscles back into place, which is a super cool effect that definitely stayed in my mind after watching the film. I really felt that I was in another galaxy. The colors, lights and imagery are very realistic, and bring you right into the world of the Guardians.

(L-R): Sean Gunn as Kraglin, Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel), Chris Pratt as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, Karen Gillan as Nebula, Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper), Dave Bautista as Drax, and Pom Klementieff as Mantis in Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 MARVEL.

There is some outstanding acting in this film, especially Chukwudi Iwuji, who completely embodies his character, High Evolutionary. His acting is so strong and completely sucks you in. There is a scene where Iwuji almost tricks the audience into thinking he’s a good person then, moments later, snaps back into his villainous side, which stood out to me. He has a way of creating an uncomfortable, but intriguing feeling, where his tricks that he uses in the movie, reflect on the audience. With Rocket one of the main driving factors of the story, Bradley Cooper really taps into his role. He shows a side of Rocket that has not yet been revealed, and creates a sympathetic feeling for the viewers. As an audience, we get to experience a raw, honest version of Rocket that feels human-like as well. There are times that I feel like I could relate to him, which really highlights the acting abilities of Bradley Cooper.

The film’s message is to never stop fighting for the ones you love. Be forewarned that this film has harsh violence and profanity.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters May 4, 2023.

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Peter Pan & Wendy * This Disney Live Action Remake Of Peter Pam Creates A New And Exciting Experience

April 28th, 2023

Based on J. M. Barrie’s novel Peter and Wendy and inspired by the 1953 animated classic, Peter Pan and Wendy is the timeless tale of a young girl who, defying her parents’ wishes to attend boarding school, travels with her two younger brothers to the magical Neverland. There, she meets a boy who refuses to grow up, a tiny fairy and an evil pirate captain, and they soon find themselves on a thrilling and dangerous adventure far, far away from their family and the comforts of home.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avani M. comments, “I like Peter Pan & Wendybecause of the magical and mysterious place called Neverland. The cinematography is so beautiful and made me wish I could be there.” Carlee S. adds, “This Disney live action remake of the classic film creates a new and exciting experience.  The film takes viewers on an adventure that delivers the characters and story people have grown to love while adding some interesting new twists.” See their full reviews below.

Peter Pan & Wendy
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

I like Peter Pan & Wendy because of the magical and mysterious place called Neverland. The cinematography is so beautiful and made me wish I could be there.

In Peter Pan & Wendy, Wendy (Ever Anderson) doesn’t want to grow up and Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) doesn’t grow up in Neverland. Peter comes to take Wendy and her brothers John (Joshua Pickering) and Michael (Jacobi Jupe) to Neverland with his friend Tinkerbell (Yara Shahidi). When Wendy and her brothers go with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell they encounter Captain Hook (Jude Law) and he shoots Wendy out of the sky. Then we are introduced to the lost boys when they save Wendy. 

Peter Pan & Wendy definitely meets the KIDS FIRST! criteria and has great messages and awesome performances. Jude Law is great as Captain Hook because he portrays an angry and hurt character at the same time. Alexander Maloney is a convincing Peter Pan because of his youthful look. Ever Anderson shows a range of emotions from her defiance of growing up to wonder at the sight of Neverland and bravery as she faces the Pirates. I really like how Neverland is shown as a luscious green island with lots of trees and plants. It is a single mysterious island in the middle of the ocean with nothing surrounding it. The cinematography is beautiful and colorful, contrasting a luscious Neverland with the darker, more serious England. I also like how Peter and Wendy fly up into the sky and go through a portal to get to Neverland.

This film has a few themes, the biggest of which is that it is okay to grow up. Wendy refuses to grow up at first, but when she sees how she doesn’t grow up in Neverland she becomes happy that she actually can grow up and have a full path ahead of her. Another message is that you cannot accomplish everything by yourself. Peter Pan tries to defeat Captain Hook all by himself, but realizes that he needs the help of his friends.

I give Peter Pan & Wendy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available on Disney+ now.

Peter Pan & Wendy
By Carlee S., Kids First! Film Critic, Age 18

Peter Pan & Wendy brings to life the timeless story of children who escape to the childhood world of Neverland. This Disney live action remake of the classic film creates a new and exciting experience.  The film takes viewers on an adventure that delivers the characters and story people have grown to love while adding some interesting new twists.

As the film begins, Wendy (Ever Anderson) is playing around with her younger brothers John (Joshua Pickering) and Michael (Jacobi Jupe). Wendy is soon going to attend a boarding school; however, she dislikes the idea of having to grow up and move away. Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) sneaks in one night trying to capture his shadow and he decides it would be best to take Wendy and her brothers with him to Neverland to prolong Wendy’s childhood. When they reach Neverland they encounter an evil pirate, Captain Hook (Jude Law), lost boys (and girls), and others. Captain Hook has his sight sent on capturing and destroying Peter Pan and anyone else who is young.

The film brings the classic story to life in a commendable way. My favorite scene is when Captain Hook takes Wendy and the lost boys captive on his pirate ship. After a fight, Captain Hook forces Wendy to walk the plank. The scene is suspenseful and keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The detailed costumes fit well with each character and many closely resemble their clothing from the original animated movie.  Captain Hook has on his iconic red coat that has a lot of intricate details and he wears a black pirate hat to top off the outfit. Tiger Lily (Alyssa Wapanatahk) wears a seemingly authentic Native American outfit in this version. The CGI in this film is spectacular! It is especially notable in the scenes in Neverland, with Tinkerbell (Yara Shahidi), when they fly, when they encounter the crocodile, and with the pirate ship. Ever Anderson, as Wendy, and Alexander Molony, as Peter Pan, are enjoyable to watch as the main characters.  Alyssa Wapanathk speaks Native American in parts of the film which gives her character a realistic feel. I also enjoyed seeing the different sides of Captain Hook’s character.  We don’t see a lot of Neverland or places such as Mermaid Lagoon, which I would have loved.

The film’s message is to find the joy in growing up. Wendy is clearly scared at first because she is nervous about growing up and facing the unknown. Growing up means things change and that can be quite scary. However, it also means new adventures and experiences. Be forewarned that there is some mild violence such as the fighting on the pirate ship and with the crocodile.

I give Peter Pan & Wendy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  It releases April 28, 2023 on Disney+.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/p-5sVX7MRj8

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