Quality Children's Entertainment Family Movie Reviews

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man * Fantastic Return To Form For The Spider-Man Universe

January 29th, 2025

This animated series follows Peter Parker on his way to becoming Spider-Man in the MCU, with a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is a compelling new series on the early life of Peter Parker. It is created in a classic comic book animation style, making it something old that new fans can enjoy.

The music is perfectly in sync with the story at every crazy twist and turn in this fantastic return to form for the Spider-Man Universe.” See his full review below.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
By Jackson N, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Hudson Thames) and Harry Osborn (Zeno Robinson) in Marvel Animation’s   Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man exclusively on Disney+. Courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is a compelling new series on the early life of Peter Parker. It is created in a classic comic book animation style, making it something old that new fans can enjoy.

The music is perfectly in sync with the story at every crazy twist and turn in this fantastic return to form for the Spider-Man Universe.

This ten episode series follows Peter Parker as “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” cruising the streets and teaching the villains that he encounters what happens when you mess with his hometown of New York City.

However, when teaching these lessons, he gets caught up in some shady business that leads him to come into contact with his first big villain. The show has a legendary finale you don’t want to miss!

Spider-Man/Peter Parker in Marvel Animation’s YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

 

The show’s music, by Leo Birenberg and Zach Robinson, is enough on its own to make it a must watch. When you add the great storyline and characters, such as Harry Osborn (Colman Domingo), The Scorpions, and the mysterious inventor (Hugh Dancy), to the mix you get something timeless. The actor who voices Peter Parker (Hudson Thames) is terrific at taking this well-loved character and making it his own. The show incorporates characters from the early comic series in new and interesting ways – which kept me, an avid fan, on my toes. Spider-Man without comedy is unheard of, and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is no different. It has great comedic timing and one liners that make it an instant classic.

Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Hudson Thames) and Norman Osborn (Colman Domingo) in YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN. Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL. All Rights Reserved.

 

The main message of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is to always be yourself and push yourself to do your best. The series shows the importance of friendship, standing up for yourself, and working hard. Parents should note that this show has minimal gore and includes infrequent, but noticeable, cursing.

I give Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

The series debuts with its first two episodes on Disney+ on January 29, 2025, with the remaining eight episodes being released weekly in groups of two or three until February 19, 2025.

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Eva the Owlet: Season 2 * Imaginative And Family Centered * I May Even Start To Journal

January 24th, 2025

“Eva the Owlet” stars Eva, a creative, cheeky owlet who lives next door to her best friend Lucy in the woodland world of Treetopington. With big ideas and an even bigger personality, Eva goes on high-flying adventures, expressing herself in her diary along the way!

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Luna C. comments, “Eva the Owlet is a cute series for younger kids and I am excited to talk about Season 2 because I like this show a lot. It is imaginative and centered towards family which makes it endearing to watch.” See her full review and interview below.

Eva the Owlet: Season 2
By Luna C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

Eva the Owlet is a cute series for younger kids and I am excited to talk about Season 2 because I like this show a lot. It is imaginative and centered towards family which makes it endearing to watch.

Eva, a little owl with a big family, lives within the woodland world of Treetopinton. She is lucky enough to live next door to her best friend, Lucy and together they go on adventures, take care of her baby brother, and make notes about all of it in her journal, which encourages young viewers to follow along.

The second season follows Eva, the middle child of the Owl family. Eva is voiced by Viviane Rutherford, a young actress whose voice inflection conveys emotion perfectly. This cheeky Owlet reflects on her days by writing in her diary where she contemplates the importance of friendship, happiness, and sharing feelings with someone or something. One of my favorite things about the second series is that there are tiny projects Eva does that are totally doable with your own family – like making superhero acorns or moon wishes for summer solstice.

The show’s message, which comes from the original books, book series, is about how doing good for others makes you happy. There is a lot of focus on helping others, appreciating your family, and being creative with your friends. It inspired me to do those tiny bits of good that make a big difference to someone else. Maybe I will even start to journal!

Eva the Owlet: Season 2 gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 2 to 5 or anyone young at heart. Eva the Owlet: Season 2 premieres on Apple TV January 24, 2025. Until then, catch up on the now available season one.

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Autumn and the Black Jaguar * A Passionate Tale Of Friendship That Surpasses Human Boundaries

January 17th, 2025

Growing up in the Amazon rainforest gave Autumn the rarest of friendships — a lost jaguar cub she discovers named Hope. When a tragic event forces Autumn to leave Hope for the unknowns of New York City, she dreams for years of going back to the rainforest and her friend. Aged 14, and having grown accustomed to city life, Autumn discovers her childhood village is under threat from animal traffickers and decides she must return to the Amazon to her beloved jaguar. Anja (Emily Bett Rickards) — Autumn’s endearingly clumsy biology teacher — unsuccessfully tries to dissuade her from this reckless plan. Joined by Anja, Autumn embarks on a journey to reunite with Hope and save her from those who seek to destroy the rainforest and its wildlife.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ruhi K. comments, “Autumn and the Black Jaguar is Told through a combination of flashbacks and present-day scenes, it shows how one girl, on a quest to save a jaguar, changes the mindset of an entire community.” See her full review below.

Autumn and the Black Jaguar
By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

Autumn and the Black Jaguar is told through a combination of flashbacks and present-day scenes, it shows how one girl, on a quest to save a jaguar, changes the mindset of an entire community.

The film follows Autumn (Lumi Pollack), a teen girl who loves animals but has none of her own. Autumn lives in New York City with her single father (Paul Greene), who moved them out of their former home in the forest after the murder of Autumn’s mother (Eva Avila) by animal poachers. When Autumn learns that Hope, the jaguar who was her childhood best friend, is in danger, she makes the journey to the Amazon rainforest to save her, trailed by her agoraphobic biology teacher (Emily Bett Rickards) and her hedgehog.

One of the most impressive aspects of Autumn and the Black Jaguar is the character development of multiple people. Almost every character undergoes some kind of transformation. Autumn learns to ask for help when she needs it, and that, while she should trust her instincts, being careful is just as important as activism. Autumn’s father learns to let people in instead of pushing them away. Her teacher opens up and is forced to reenter the world and make friends. Even Autumn’s uncle Oré (Wayne Charles Baker) learns to take a stand when something is wrong, rather than sitting still.

The cinematography is also worth mentioning – Autumn and the Black Jaguar takes place in a rainforest and we see many breathtakingly beautiful shots of the Amazon jungle and its wildlife, rivers and waterfalls. Finally, the chemistry between Lumi Pollack and the real jaguar used for the film blows my mind. Before filming for Autumn and the Black Jaguar began, Pollack spent one year bonding with the jaguar, which is very apparent when they are on-screen together. Their interactions are very natural, and Pollack displays no fear or tension around the jaguar (which is really saying something, considering its size!). I was greatly moved by this touching story of one girl’s unwavering bond with an animal and how she uses it to make a change.

Autumn’s inspiring journey is a reminder to stand up for those who would do the same for you in your time of need – animals as well as people. Be there for those who have been there for you, because one day you could be depending on them to save you. Autumn and the Black Jaguar also highlights the importance of perseverance. Determination can be the difference between failing and making an impact, even when it seems like the cards are stacked against you.

I give Autumn and the Black Jaguar 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters nationwide on January 17, 2025.

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Unstoppable * Moving And Inspiring — Offering An Authentic Narrative That Sheds Light On Anthony Robles’ Incredible Life

January 16th, 2025

Unstoppable is the inspiring true story of Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) who was born with one leg but whose indomitable spirit and unbreakable resolve empowered him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams. With the unwavering love and support of his devoted mother Judy (Jennifer Lopez) and the encouragement of his coaches, Anthony fights through adversity to earn a spot on the Arizona State Wrestling team. But it will demand everything he has, physically and mentally, to achieve his ultimate quest to become an NCAA Champion.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.” See her full review below.

Unstoppable
By Zoë C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Unstoppable is a moving film based on a true story. It’s inspiring and offers an authentic narrative that sheds light on Anthony Robles’ incredible life with great acting and a beautiful storyline.

Anthony Robles (Jharrel Jerome) is a wrestler who’s missing a leg. He comes from a dysfunctional family as his father is abusive and comes and goes as he pleases. The story begins at Robles’ senior year of high school as he is applying to colleges while competing in many wrestling matches. He takes the daring choice to walk onto ASU, one of the top schools for wrestling. Not sure if he has what it takes or not, but with support from his siblings, Anthony makes the team and finds his place. He is faced with the match of his life as he competes with his biggest opponent his senior year of college. To Anthony this match means more than just winning, it is an opportunity for people to look up to him for who he is, not what he’s missing.

This beautiful story is accompanied by a fantastic cast. Jharrel Jerome’s portrayal of Anthony is the heart of this film. He has such great dynamics throughout the film, which truly demonstrate Anthony’s personal and emotional growth, along with his physical growth throughout his training. The stunts are done by Anthony Robles himself, making this film all that more special. Jenifer Lopez, as Anthony’s mom (Judy), also delivers a great performance. Her character shows a different side of Anthony’s story – together the two actors have a lovely chemistry which is so vital to the story.

Micheal Peña, who is a Latino Hollywood gem, plays Anthony’s coach in the film, and is great as always. Don Cheadle, who plays Anthony’s college coach, is another amazing actor who delivers a terrific performance.

On the surface, the film seems to be a typical sports drama; however director William Goldenberg allows the story to shine on its own. I love when stories show awareness of unknown heroes; I am unfamiliar with wrestling, but watching this film was so inspiring and uplifting. I also love that it goes beyond being a stereotypical story of an athlete striving to reach to the top. I also really enjoyed the cinematography by Salvatore Totino. The cinematography reflects the way Anthony feels internally – his lows are shown in varied gray and cool tones; his highs are brightly and vibrantly colored, which brings life to his story.

The film’s message is to persevere and fight for your dreams. Be aware that there are some violent scenes and strong language.

I give Unstoppable 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It is available to watch now in theaters or on Amazon Prime.

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Mufasa: The Lion King * An Animated Thriller With A Heartwarming Storyline About Believing, Love, And Family

January 3rd, 2025

Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, “Mufasa: The Lion King” enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Junior R. comments, “Mufasa: The Lion King, takes us back to the beginnings of one of Disney’s most beloved characters.  As a huge fan of the original Lion King, I was thrilled to see the true story of how the great Mufasa came to be.” Juliana S. adds, “I love the film Mufasa: The Lion King! The movie has incredibly detailed animation and provides the message that everyone has a place in this world, and that you don’t have to be born great to become great.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “Mufasa: The Lion King is an animated thriller. I really like this film and the way that it explores the Lion King’s story in a new way. It has a heartwarming storyline that teaches the important lessons of believing, love, and family.” See their full reviews below.

Mufasa: The Lion King
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Sarabi (Tiffany Boone), Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), Rafiki (Kagiso Lediga), and Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024

Time to visit Pride Rock once again.  Mufasa: The Lion King takes us back to the beginnings of one of Disney’s most beloved characters.  As a huge fan of the original Lion King, I was thrilled to see the true story of how the great Mufasa came to be.

Mufasa: The Lion King explores the untold story of Mufasa’s youth long before he became the king of The Pride Lands. The film follows his journey from a humble and uncertain young lion to the wise, noble leader we know. Along the way, Mufasa forms deep bonds of friendship, faces challenges, and navigates a complicated relationship.

As he learns what it means to be a leader, Mufasa discovers that true strength comes from love, loyalty, and doing what’s right, no matter the cost.

Kiros (voiced by Mads Mikkelson) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Mufasa faces a lot of challenges, but he always tries to do the right thing and protect those he loves. Writers Jeff Nathanson, Linda Woolverton, and Irene Mecchi have created a strong storyline that connects the puzzle pieces together to complete the full story of the Lion King and Mufasa.  In Mufasa: The Lion King, the characters come to life in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.  The heart of the movie revolves around Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who brings warmth and wisdom to the young lion’s journey.

As the film explores his bond with his brother Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), their complex relationship is highlighted through both voice acting and rich storytelling. A breathtaking moment for me is when a single water droplet freezes in mid-air, perfectly capturing Simba’s (Donald Glover) face.  It creates an almost surreal feeling, as if time itself has paused, and the film freezes in that very instant, allowing the emotion in that scene to linger.  The music does not disappoint in this film either, with catchy, upbeat songs throughout.

(L-R) Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre), Young Rafiki (Kagiso Lediga), Taka (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Sarabi (Tiffany Boone). Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The film emphasizes that true leadership comes from being kind, strong, and fair, while also reminding us that sometimes family dynamics can be complicated.  The story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, even when life is tough.  The movie focuses on choosing to do what is right, no matter what happens.  Be forewarned, there are a lot of fighting scenes throughout the film.  While not overly graphic, it can be a bit intense especially for younger audiences.

Mufasa: The Lion King gets 3 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  Mufasa: The Lion King releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

Mufasa: The Lion King
By Juliana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

(L-R): Sarabi (voiced by Tiffany Boone), Taka (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr.), Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre), and Rafiki (voiced by Kagiso Lediga) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

I love the film Mufasa: The Lion King! The movie has incredibly detailed animation and provides the message that everyone has a place in this world, and that you don’t have to be born great to become great. These morals are conveyed through the dialogue and plot of the film.

Mufasa: The Lion King tells the backstory of the young lion, Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who is separated from his parents and taken far from home. A young Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) gladly takes him into his home, and his mother, Eshe (Thandiwe Newton) raises the lost lion. As Mufasa grows up, he learns how to understand his surroundings and hunt like a female. Eventually, Taka and Mufasa have to leave home together and go on a long adventure, to find the magical land of Milele.

One actor who really stands out to me is John Kani, who voices the all-knowing Mandrill monkey, Rafiki. Kani not only voices Rafiki with passion, but understands his character deeply. John Kani uses timing and volume to truly set in the words of the wise monkey. When saying philosophical things, which occurs often, Rafiki takes his time to ensure that the message gets across to the other animals.

Young Rafiki (voiced by Kagiso Lediga) live-action Disney’s MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Another thing that stands out is the animation; the head of the team being Pascal Blais. One of the first things that I noticed when the movie started is how realistic the animation is. Every piece of fur on the lions’ coats, every highlight or shadow, even every small gust of wind that blows the leaves in the trees is so carefully created. The transitions of the film flow smoothly and show how truly talented the animation team is.

The message of this film is that you have a place, and no matter where you come from, you can be something great. Mufasa is very successful in motivating others to take action and be brave in everyday life!

I give Mufasa: The Lion King 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It opens in theatres on December 20, 2024.

Mufasa: The Lion King
By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 18

(L-R): Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre), Eshe (Thandiwe Newton), and Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney.

Mufasa: The Lion King is an animated thriller. I really like this film and the way that it explores the Lion King’s story in a new way. It has a heartwarming storyline that teaches the important lessons of believing, love, and family.

In this film, Rafiki (John Kani) tells the story of Mufasa to Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter), Timon (Billy Eichner) and Pumbaa (Seth Rogan). We learn that when Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) was a child he was unfortunately separated from his family. However, he never gave up on the land of Malaylay, and kept that hope with him throughout his wild, unexpected journey through life.

Something that really stands out in the Mufasa: The Lion King is the cgi. The animation of the lions is incredibly realistic. Although they are animals, each has human-like emotions on their faces and very distinctive features.

(L-R): Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre) and Taka (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Aside from the characters, all of the scenery is beautiful. The land of Malaylay is so colorful and vibrant, and the flowers and trees completely stand out. Even the underwater scenes are vibrant and realistic. Experiencing the film in IMAX completely added to the experience and made me feel like I was really there in these places. Another thing I really enjoyed is all of the references to the original Lion King film. The first movie is such a huge part of my childhood, and a film that I really connect with. Mufasa really feels like an adaptation of that movie while telling a completely different story. It is really interesting to discover this storyline and connect the dots to all the questions I used to have. Specifically, finding out the story of Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and the history he has with Mufasa was really cool for me to learn.

Lastly, the music is outstanding. Lin Manuel Miranda composed such delightful, yet strong songs for this film. The musical theater aspect of this film is another thing that I really enjoyed.

Mufasa (voiced by Aaron Pierre) in Disney’s live-action MUFASA: THE LION KING. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Also, some of the songs tie in with music from the original Lion King which really connects everything and makes it feel like one story. Music is such an important part of the Lion King franchise, and the score of this film completely exceeded my expectations.

The message of Mufasa: The Lion King is to never give up on what you believe in.

I give Mufasa: The Lion King 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18 plus adults. Mufasa: The Lion King releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

 

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