KIDS FIRST! News

A young boy, grieving the recent loss of his mother, attempts to contact her with the help of his friends.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “The Spirit of Friendship is incredibly cute and entertaining. Like friends should be, it feels good and has lots of charm. It also has a unique storyline which made me laugh throughout.” Zoey F. adds, “I like Spirit of Friendship because of the gorgeous scenery, appeal to kids, fitting background music and meaningful theme. This is a film about friendship; we watch Billy’s friends help him deal with his grief and support his ideas about talking to his mom’s spirit.” Josephine K. wraps it up with, “The movie Spirit of Friendship offers a unique look at a child mourning the loss of a loved one. The message and plot have a lot of potential and a great message.” See their full reviews below.

The Spirit of Friendship
Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The Spirit of Friendship is incredibly cute and entertaining. Like friends should be, it feels good and has lots of charm. It also has a unique storyline which made me laugh throughout.

The story follows two siblings’ experience with the loss of their mom. They turn to their dad, Billy (Jeremey London), for comfort.  The dad offers support by telling how he experienced loss when he was a child.

The film is cute, unique, and interesting. When a brother and sister experience the loss of their mother, a story within a story ensues, as their dad retells how he coped with his own loss as a child. We go back in time to see a younger Billy (Carter Grassi) losing his mother as a child and his friend (Dante Corticelli) suggesting a ritual to communicate with the dead. While performing the ritual, the friends scatter because they think they’re in trouble. Billy remains behind, upset that his attempt to reach his mother has failed. The story develops and, rather than being caught, Billy and an old man, Leonard (Sal Rendino) develop a friendship. They meet to share their memories and favorite moments. Billy lost his mother, and Leonard lost his wife, Margret. The two share a common thread; the people they lost both loved doing crossword puzzles. This similarity brings Leonard and Billy closer together as friends. When Billy wants his new friend, Leonard, to meet his neighborhood crew, Leonard never shows. The magic of this movie is the reveal at the end. There are moments of friendship, bullying, crushes and heartache. We see how the bond of friendship can withstand loss.

The film’s message is to cherish and value friendships; to cherish memories of those we lose, and not let that loss affect your happiness or positivity.  It is okay to grieve over a loved one, but they would not want you to let the past affect how you feel for the rest of your life. Charming as this film is be aware that there is profanity in a couple of scenes plus a few violent interactions such as fighting, bullying and harassment.

I give Spirit of Friendship 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It begins streaming on August 13, 2024.

Spirit of Friendship
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I like Spirit of Friendship because of the gorgeous scenery, appeal to kids, fitting background music and meaningful theme. Although there are some awkward moments, it is a good family friendly film.

The storyline follows Billy (Jeremy London) recalling his experience dealing with his mother’s death. Twelve-year-old Billy (Carter Grassi) and his friends, Mike (Luca Corticelli) and Jake (Dante Corticelli), try to communicate with Billy’s deceased mom’s spirit and meet two women, Emma (Delaney Miclette) and her friend Abby (Brianna Gleason) – Emma is sympathetic, but Abby is disrespectful and mocks him. As he struggles to cope with his emotions, a mysterious man named Leonard (Sal Rendino) mysteriously shows up to help Billy deal with his grief.

This is a film about friendship; we watch Billy’s friends help him deal with his grief and support his ideas about talking to his mom’s spirit. One thing I like about Spirit of Friendship is the scenery and gorgeous sets that make this film look real. When Billy and his friends are walking through a forest trail, there are spectacular trees with autumn leaves falling everywhere. The background music always compliments the scenes. For example, when Billy is having fun with Mike and Jake, there is upbeat pop music. I like that this movie includes contemporary slang that kids can relate to. Mike and Jake use words like “mid” – for mediocre. This is relatable because kids actually use that slang. I am impressed with the acting of Sal Rendino who plays Leonard. He serves as Billy’s role model, which makes a lot of sense. There are some awkward moments such as when the actors repeatedly stutter their lines or times when the acting seems awkward. Whenever Emma talks to Billy, it feels off. The emotional connection that Emma and Billy are supposed to have does not quite come off as real and this makes their dialogue feel corny.

The film’s message is to value the people around you. It is important to treasure the people who love you especially when you are suffering from a loss. Be forewarned that there is some harsh language and minor swearing.

I give Spirit of Friendship 3.5 of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It begins streaming on August 13, 2024.

Spirit of Friendship
By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The movie Spirit of Friendship offers a unique look at a child mourning the loss of a loved one. The message and plot have a lot of potential and a great message. I liked the beginning, but towards the middle, I lost interest.

This story follows a father (Jeremy London) whose kids are trying to get over the loss of their recently deceased grandfather. The father tries to help his kids by telling them how he got over the loss of his mother when he was a child. He tells about how his younger self (Carter Grassi) and his friends helped him try to contact his mother after her death. Over a series of events and with the help of a wise stranger, Leonard (Sal Rendino), the father’s younger self realizes the truth about keeping her memory alive.

The script is rather repetitive and the acting falls short, but the message, the costumes and sets are all excellent. I love the girls’ costumes, especially Emma (Delaney Miclette). They are very modern. This film has breathtaking sets, which are a bright spot. It is set in fall, which provides stunning scenery. The cemetery and all its pathways are particularly pretty. The acting in the film is its weakest aspect; the actors don’t give much emotion to their performances, especially the child actors who seemed to not really know their lines or say them so fast that they lack impact. There are three actors that stand out for their performances and they are all adult actors. My favorite character is Leonard because he is wise and has a good perspective on life. Also, Sal Rendino, who plays him, delivers all of his lines so well and every word feels like it has meaning.

The film’s message is that loved ones are always with you even if they have passed away. This is an uplifting and relatable message.

I give Spirit of Friendship 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It begins streaming on August 13, 2024.

Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. After he grows up and draws himself off the book’s pages and into the physical world, Harold finds he has a lot to learn about real life—and that his trusty purple crayon may set off more hilarious hijinks than he thought possible. When the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it will take all of Harold and his friends’ creativity to save both the real world and his own. Harold and the Purple Crayon is the first film adaptation of the beloved children’s classic that has captivated young readers for decades.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ari S. comments, “I thoroughly enjoyed Harold and the Purple Crayon for its imaginative storyline and vibrant animation. The film beautifully captures the essence of creativity and the wonders of a child’s imagination, making it delightful to watch…One of the standout aspects of Harold and the Purple Crayon is its stunning animation, which brings Harold’s drawings to life with vivid colors and fluid movements.” Kennedy P. adds, “I love Harold and the Purple Crayon.  It’s a great family movie, and one that really drew me in.  This film is inspired by the beloved 1955 children’s book that has captivated young readers for decades.  The film had me laughing out loud and imagining what it would be like to create something with my own magic purple crayon.” See their full reviews and interviews with cast and crew below.

Harold and the Purple Crayon
By Ari S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

I thoroughly enjoyed Harold and the Purple Crayon for its imaginative storyline and vibrant animation. The film beautifully captures the essence of creativity and the wonders of a child’s imagination, making it delightful to watch. Its seamless blend of whimsy and real-world elements offers a refreshing cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In Harold and the Purple Crayon, grown-up Harold (Zachary Levi) steps out of his book and into the real world, bringing his magical purple crayon with him. This crayon allows him to create anything he can imagine simply by drawing it. However, Harold soon discovers that life outside the pages is more complex and challenging than he ever expected. As the power of his crayon attracts the attention of those with less pure intentions, Harold and his friends must use their creativity and wits to protect both their magical world and the real one from impending chaos.

Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

One of the standout aspects of Harold and the Purple Crayon is its stunning animation, which brings Harold’s drawings to life with vivid colors and fluid movements. The film masterfully blends whimsical drawings with real-world settings, creating a seamless and enchanting visual experience. The storyline is engaging, striking a perfect balance between humor and heartwarming moments as Harold navigates his new reality.

The voice acting is superb, with each character adding depth and personality to their roles, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The film’s pace is excellent, keeping me hooked from start to finish, with each scene building anticipation and excitement. The creativity displayed in solving problems with the crayon is both amusing and inspiring, showing that imagination knows no bounds.

(L to R) Lil Rel Howery “Moose” and Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

At its core, Harold and the Purple Crayon teaches us that creativity and imagination are powerful tools that can solve even the most challenging problems.

I give Harold and the Purple Crayon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 through 12, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on August 2, 2024. Be sure to check it out.

Harold and the Purple Crayon
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 10

I love Harold and the Purple Crayon.  It’s a great family movie, and one that really drew me in.  This film is inspired by the beloved 1955 children’s book that has captivated young readers for decades.  The film had me laughing out loud and imagining what it would be like to create something with my own magic purple crayon.

Zachary Levi “Harold”in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. When he grows up, Harold draws himself off of the book’s pages and into the physical world with his pals, Moose (Lil Rel Howery) and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), where they meet a widowed mom named Terry (Zooey Deschanel) and her still-grieving son, Mel (Benjamin Bottani).

Harold discovers that he has a lot to learn about real life and when

the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it takes all of Harold and his friends’ creativity to save both the real world and his own.

This movie is tons of fun and filled with hilarious hijinks making the impossible possible. I love the comedy, the heartfelt story, the family values and the endless imagination.  I really love how they took the book and stretched it out and made it into something amusing and cinematic at the same time.

(L to R) Zachary Levi “Harold”, Benjamin Bottani “Mel” and Lil Rel Howery “Moose” in Columbia Pictures HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON

I love watching Harold draw so many things throughout the movie that come to life on the big screen, like a plane, pies, a bike, a tire, and so many other things.  Also, there is so much chemistry with all of the characters that you can feel it through the big screen, like when they all work together to help Harold find his dad.  There are so many adventures they go on during the film.  I love the scene when Harold and Moose go to Terry’s workplace and things get out of hand when Harold starts drawing whatever people are looking for.

This film has something for everyone – it is a family movie, with layers that adults will enjoy as much as kids.

The film’s message is to believe in yourself, never stop imagining and explore your creativity no matter your age.

I give Harold and the Purple Crayon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Harold and the Purple Crayon beginning August 2, 2024.

When Bikini Bottom and all its denizens are suddenly scooped out of the ocean, Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob SquarePants journey to Texas where they meet Sandy’s family and must save Bikini Bottom from the hands of an evil CEO.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalynn G. comments, “The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous, I laughed out loud at almost every joke! …Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case. See her full review and interview below.

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie
By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is very humorous; I laughed out loud at almost every joke! I love the new characters they introduce from Sandy Cheeks’ family. Their costumes are very creative.

The storyline follows Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence) and her friend SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) while they go on an adventure in Galveston, Texas to save their home, Bikini Bottom, and all their friends. An evil scientist (Wanda Sykes) captures their ocean companions including Squidward (Roger Bumpass) and Patrick Star (Bill Fagerbakke) to clone them and sell them as pets. Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob face many obstacles such as rattlesnakes and dogs while they rescue their friends.

This film brings all the laughs! Being from south Texas, myself, I found it hilarious how Galveston is portrayed. It looks like there is sand, rattlesnakes, rolling hills and cacti everywhere which is not quite the case.  I also found it funny how the scientists wear cowboy hats and boots instead of normal lab coats. Every Texas stereotype is used, including their language. You hear, “I reckon and Dagnamit,” and everyone is riding a horse.

Sandy Cheeks shows her love for her hometown in a big way.  I love how they introduce Sandy Cheeks’ family. I did not expect a secret whistle to call everyone together. I also enjoy how Sandy Cheek’s family supports what Sandy wants to do since she doesn’t want to be in the circus and continue in the family business.

The film’s messages are about using teamwork to accomplish important tasks and a reminder that sometimes your friends are a part of your family.

I give Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. This film releases on Netflix Aug 2, 2024.

New school. New family. New superpower. It’s a season of change for 12-year-old Ben Vasani when he discovers that he can transform into anyone he meets. As a shapeshifter, Ben must figure out who he is and who he wants to be.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!” Ella S. adds, “I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.” See their full reviews and interviews below.

Me
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Me is a science fiction series that consistently gave me goosebumps. It grabbed my attention from the very first scene. The plot is very engaging and I was thrilled to binge-watch all of the episodes. Be prepared for some mind-bending television!

This show is about a 12-year-old boy named Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) who is anxious about his untrodden world. He has a new family, new school, and newly discovered powers. Luckily, he has a step-sister, Max, (Abigail Pniowsky) to help him traverse all of the peculiar surprises that pop-up. Viewers follow Ben as he tries to untangle the mysteries of his surroundings and finally discover his true self.

Me had my heart racing. All of the characters struggle with growing-up and figuring out who they truly want to be in this world. It is a relatable story with many twists and turns. The super power special effects are very realistic – from hands bubbling into new shades to swapping of ears. Furthermore, there is a storm that blows through the fictional town of Boatright that made me concerned for the fate of the characters. It has supernatural attributes twisted into a tornado-like beast. All of these are executed flawlessly.

All of the main characters are also perfectly cast. Lucian-River Chauhan’s performance as Ben made me believe that he was a nervous and unsure kid and my anxiety rose as I watched him navigate his surroundings. Max is the opposite of Ben. Abigail Pniowsky shines with her confidence as Max and his ability to keep Ben in check. The supporting actors help pull the show together. Carter Kennedy (Amanda Reid) scared me at first, but I quickly realized that she just might be the key to the mysteries that Ben and Max are trying to unravel. Darren Kennedy (Sharif Atkins) adds suspense to the story as well as introduces an important asset to the unsolved puzzle.

The film’s message is about discovery, learning what your gifts are and a reminder to not waste them. Be aware that the show does have some violence and dangerous activities.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The first ten episodes premiere globally on Friday, July 12, 2024 on Apple TV+.

Me
By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 15

I really enjoyed watching the new TV series, Me because it offers a take that I could relate to on tween and teenage years and the ups and downs of discovering who you are.

When 12-year-old Ben (Lucian-River Chauhan) moves in with a new father and stepsister after his mother (Dilshad Valsaria) remarries, his life turns upside down. As Ben is adjusting to a new school and new friends he suddenly realizes he has the ability to shapeshift into anyone around him! The only problem is, he can’t control when it happens and who he becomes. Ben and his stepsister Max (Abigail Pniowsky) attempt to discover what triggers the shift and uncover the truth about his abilities, discovering much bigger secrets along the way.

The creators of Me had a brilliant idea and flawlessly executed it. It’s not every day we get to see a tween superhero. Me has just the right ratio of fantasy to real life that makes it relatable to tween and teenage viewers. For example, Ben struggles with being bullied, which unfortunately many kids can relate to. He faces the dilemma of whether or not he should use his powers to shapeshift into and expose the bully, Jason, because doing so would mean bullying another kid. The right decision is not always clear, especially to young people, because we are still learning from our experiences. Even though Ben has these extraordinary abilities, in many ways he is in the same boat as the rest of us, discovering who he is, what his values and beliefs are, and how to do the right thing. The “superhero” aspect of Ben’s life is balanced by his age.

Another feature of the show that caught my attention are the special effects, especially during the storm. The combination of the sight, sound, the actors’ reactions, and especially the angle from which it is shot makes it feel three-dimensional, as though you are standing inside the tornado. Special effects are also used to show the special abilities of some of the other characters, such as levitation and the ability to shoot ice on command. Superhero fans will enjoy this aspect of the show, plus it contains fast-paced battle scenes, acts of magic, and an interesting subplot following the secret society of PEOPLE behind Ben’s abilities.

The show’s message is that we are always learning about ourselves and discovering who we are. Your identity is unique and you should embrace who you are because there is no other person like you. No one can be you better than you can be. Be aware that this show contains many scenes of bullying, both verbal and mild physical violence, but no blood is shown.

I give Me 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, plus adults. Me releases on Apple TV on July 21, 2024.

After the Queen of Hearts incites a coup on Auradon, her rebellious daughter Red and Cinderella’s perfectionist daughter Chloe join forces and travel back in time to try to undo the traumatic event that set Red’s mother down her villainous path.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P., comments, “I love the new Descendants: The Rise Of Red.  It is captivating by combining thrilling action with emotional depth, amazing visuals and great musical numbers. Plus there are strong performances and a great plot…” See her full review below.

Descendants: The Rise Of Red
By Kennedy P., KIDS First!  Film Critic, age 10

I love the new Descendants: The Rise Of Red.  It is captivating by combining thrilling action with emotional depth, amazing visuals and great musical numbers. Plus there are strong performances and a great plot, which keep the magic of the franchise alive while introducing new elements.

Directed by Jennifer Phang, Descendants: The Rise of Red introduces Red (Kylie Cantrallr), the rebellious daughter of the Queen of Hearts (Rita Ora), and Chloe (Malia Baker), Cinderella’s (Brandy Norwood) perfectionist daughter. When the tyrannical Queen of Hearts incites a coup against Auradon, polar opposites Red and Chloe must join forces and travel back in time using a magical pocket watch to undo the traumatic event that set Red’s mother down her villainous path.

The Descendants movies always have the best musical numbers and phenomenal dance choreography. The soundtrack is out now and I already know the lyrics by heart. The set designs, costumes, hair and makeup are all amazing. The brilliant Emilio Sosa designed the dazzling costumes worn by Red, Chloe, Uliana, Cinderella and Bridget / Queen of Hearts. The film is family friendly and there is so much chemistry with these characters you can feel it through the screen.  The villains in this film are so good.  They are wicked and their facial expressions and mannerism are spot on with their characters. You don’t need to see the previous Descendants movies to watch The Rise Of Red, but I highly recommend watching them all in order. They are all on Disney+. There is a beautiful tribute to Carlos (Cameron Boyce) that will have you in tears at the beginning of the movie. Cameron played Carlos in the previous Descendants movies and tragically passed away at the age of 20.  Whether you are a longtime fan (like me) or a newcomer, this film offers something magical for everyone. This movie will bring a new generation of fans to Auradon and sets up a lot more stories to come for VK’s!

The film is about friendship, not judging a book by its cover, mom and daughter relationships, doing what is right and working together.

I give Descendants: The Rise Of Red 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  You can watch Descendants: The Rise Of Red on Disney+ now.