KIDS FIRST! News

After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “I love Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.  This movie has wit, jokes and a mix of the afterlife. It exceeded my expectations and is spot on brilliant. Every aspect of this film is jam-packed entertainment.” Keila V. adds, “I had a blast watching Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Tim Burton’s original Beetlejuice (1988) was a quirky, darkly comedic journey through the afterlife, and the 2024 sequel brings that same manic energy with a fresh, ghostly twist.” See their full reviews below.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
By Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.  This movie has wit, jokes and a mix of the afterlife. It exceeded my expectations and is spot on brilliant. Every aspect of this film is jam-packed entertainment.  Director Tim Burton delivers a fabulous sequel to Beetlejuice and the return of the original cast plus a few new faces adds to its charm.

The storyline dives once more into the world of the afterlife with Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) and his quest to be in the world of the living.  His need to become human intensifies when he realizes his soul-sucking ex-wife, Delores (Monica Bellucci) is out for revenge. Beetlejuice renews his focus to unite with human sweetheart, Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) to avoid death.  Lydia is a grown adult and a famous medium.  Her daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega) does not believe in seeing ghosts and their relationship is broken from the death of her dad. Plots and sub-plots merge to create a chaotic and fun ending.

The opening musical score made me feel anticipation from the start. The film returns to the original white house on the hill in Winter River as the family morns for grandpa.  Memories of the house from childhood have Lydia seeing flashes of Beetlejuice.  The town offers an escape for her daughter to make new connections and a special friend.  The original house is not the only nod to the original Beetlejuice. We revisit the long wait lines in the afterlife, shrunken head Bob, misshaped hallways and the sandworm.  There’s an awesome Day O serenade. All of the special effects and makeup for the dead are fabulous. Delia (Catherine O’Hara) stands out to me — her dark tendencies for art become dark comic moments of dealing with grief. Her character is spunky and artistically fun. Beetlejuice is the consistent demon with head twirls, raspy voice and raunchy jokes. From costumes, sound effects, makeup and set design, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice does not disappoint.

The film’s message is to value the love of your family, here and now. Create memories for today and not dwell on the past.  As amazing as this film is, it is a bit edgy with profanity, slight intimacy, violence, unsettling imagery, gore, jump scares and endless mentions of death and the afterlife.

I give Beetlejuice Beetlejuice 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters September 6, 2024.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I had a blast watching Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Tim Burton’s original Beetlejuice (1988) was a quirky, darkly comedic journey through the afterlife, and the 2024 sequel brings that same manic energy with a fresh, ghostly twist. This film is a great pick for a fun night out with friends and family.

Set years after the original, the movie revisits the afterlife with an exciting new spin. Still haunted by Beetlejuice (Tim Burton), Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is now a renowned ghost hunter and paranormal investigator. Her life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.  When someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, the mischievous demon gleefully returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

The story cleverly blends themes of family, identity, and the supernatural, creating a nostalgic yet innovative experience. The pacing is dynamic, combining humor and suspense to keep viewers engaged from start to finish. It was a joy to see Delia Deetz (Catherine O’Hara) return, alongside Lydia, and to meet new characters like my favorite, Astrid Deetz, as well as Rory (Justin Theroux) and Delores (Monica Bellucci). Visually, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a treat for the eyes. The film’s creative team has expertly merged Beetlejuice’s iconic gothic style with cutting-edge special effects, resulting in a visually stunning and imaginative world. The special effects are impressively whimsical and grotesque, perfectly capturing the film’s dark humor and surrealism. One standout scene is when Astrid rides a bike around town, navigating a series of challenges and surprises that reflect her personal struggles and growth.

The film’s core message centers on self-acceptance, authenticity, and the value of true friendship. It encourages young audiences to embrace their unique selves and stay true to their identity, rather than fitting into others’ expectations. Additionally, it underscores the importance of loyalty and support in relationships, showing that genuine friends are those who accept you for who you are and stand by you no matter what.

I give Beetlejuice Beetlejuice a solid 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Don’t miss it when it hits theaters on September 6, 2024!

Three kids discover a magical raincoat that transports them into the body of its former owner: a cursed magician last seen in the 1930s. With a scorned witch hot on their trail, they must solve the mystery of the raincoat and break its curse before it’s too late.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoey F. comments, “I love The Magician’s Raincoat. It is such A Great Movie, With Witty Humor, Amazing Graphics, And Many Plot Twists! The humor in this movie is what I am most impressed with. My favorite scene where this is shown is when Mrs Weaver’s cat puts on the raincoat and is turned into Semprini.” Josephine K. adds, “What a spectacular film! The Magician’s Raincoat is a magical and fantastical journey. The special effects are on point and look very realistic. The plot, sets, and script are all spectacular and organized in a way that ties the storyline together.” See their full reviews below.

The Magician’s Raincoat
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love The Magician’s Raincoat. It is such A Great Movie, With Witty Humor, Amazing Graphics, And Many Plot Twists!

The plot follows the magician Augustus Semprini (Cory Philips) as he performs one of his magic acts. Desperate for money, he steals a golden pin from a woman named Gertrude Cambellton (Ashton Leigh). She approaches him after the show, asking if he stole her broach. He denies her accusations, causing her to harness her witch powers and trap him inside his raincoat. The only way he can free himself is to return it. Almost 86 years pass and we meet Jack, a simple high schooler. Jack (Jake Alexander William) and his siblings come across the raincoat in their grandmother’s attic. The raincoat possesses the ability to turn the wearer into the spitting image of Augustus Semprini. A seemingly normal, but mean middle school teacher, Mrs Weaver (Laura Shatkus) is not that normal after all. She is a witch, and also after the raincoat!

The humor in this movie is what I am most impressed with. My favorite scene where this is shown is when Mrs Weaver’s cat puts on the raincoat and is turned into Semprini. The actor’s performance really convinced me that he was a cat, just in a human body. I also love that this movie has amazing actors that can really make these scenes come to life. Along with the acting, the graphics, costumes and sets of this movie are amazing. When the setting is in the 1900s, there are fitting sets and costumes that make this film come to life. The background music is always extremely fitting. When Mrs Weaver fights Jack, there is suspenseful music to match it. And when there are happy scenes, there is jolly, happy music.

The theme of The Magician’s Raincoat is that not everything is always as it seems. Augustus seems like a perfectly reasonable man, but he steals just to get money. Mrs Weaver seems like a normal teacher, but she turns out to be a witch.

I give The Magician’s Raincoat 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available for streaming beginning September 3, 2024.

The Magician’s Raincoat
By Josephine K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

What a spectacular film! The Magician’s Raincoat is a magical and fantastical journey. The special effects are on point and look very realistic. The plot, sets, and script are all spectacular and organized in a way that ties the storyline together.

This story begins with a magician (Cory Phillips) performing his show in the late 1920s. He doesn’t have the money to stay in the magic business so he pickpockets his attendees for money. Then, one of his victims turns his life into a disaster. So 86 years later, in present time, three siblings work together to help save the magician from an eternity of tragedy.

This film is high quality, and the plot is creative and fun. What stands out most are the camera work, acting, and storyline. The camera work is excellent and provides a variety of angles perfect for the scenes themselves. For example, when the kids are riding their bikes, the camera provides a bird’s eye view that follows them on their journey. The acting is exceptional and the actors are well cast and their portrayals are believable. Olivia (Taylor Bedford)  is brilliant and the actor who plays her shows this during a discussion with her science teacher (Laura Shatkus). I also like the part when the cat puts on the raincoat and “becomes” the magician; Cory Philips, who portrays him, is excellent.

The story is clear, enjoyable, innovative and intriguing, providing for the overall excellent experience. My favorite part is when Jack (Jake Alexander Williams) tries to talk to his crush, Kristy (Jenna Thaxton) and is not successful, which makes for a hilariously embarrassing scene.

The film’s message is that, over time, comes forgiveness, and eventually desperation. There are also strong themes of the importance of family.

I give The Magician’s Raincoat 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available for streaming beginning September 3 2024.

Sophomore year brews lots of changes for Monster High. The power of three is put to the test as Clawdeen, Draculaura, and Frankie face monstrous challenges this year–new students, new powers, evolving friendships, and a mysterious threat that could not only tear their friendship apart, but also change the world forever.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalon N. comments, “Monster High 2 is an impressive film that takes audiences into an immersive experience within this world of monsters. It has fantastic special effects and a character …One of my all-time favorite parts of this film is the choreography.” See her full review below.

Monster High 2
By Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

L-R: Miia Harris as Clawdeen Wolf and Ceci Balagot as Frankie Stein in Monster High 2 on Nickelodeon and streaming on PARAMOUNT+. Photo Credit: Kailey Schwerman/Nickelodeon/Paramount+.

Monster High 2 is an impressive film that takes audiences into an immersive experience within this world of monsters. It has fantastic special effects and characters that left me on the edge of my seat.

Monster High 2 is the sequel to Monster High in which Clawdeen Wolf (Miia Harris) is a half werewolf, half human that is running for prefect of Monster High against the new student Toralei (Salena Qureshi). Toralei ends up getting magic banded at Monster high so Draculaura (Nayah Damasen) runs off with a boy who promises that he can reunite vampires and humans as fellow witches. From there the chaos of this movie continues to unfold.

One of my all-time favorite parts of this film is the choreography. It’s all very fun to watch and also believable and makes sense within the context of the storyline. The vocals, combined with the choreography, make it even better. Two of my favorite songs from the film, for both vocals and choreography, are “Reason We’ve Got Magic” and “You Don’t Know.” They both add so much to the story and are very engaging to watch. Definitely keep a look out for those in the movie.

L-R: Kyra Leroux as Demi Boovais and Miia Harris as Clawdeen Wolf in Monster High 2 on Nickelodeon and streaming on PARAMOUNT+. Photo Credit: Kailey Schwerman/Nickelodeon/Paramount+.

Something else I love is the costumes and sets. The whole show is set at the mythical school of Monster High and thus, they must have very elaborate costumes and sets in order to bring this school to life – the movie really pulls that through. Toralei and Draculaura have some of the coolest costumes in the film. Finally, the characters are terrific; each character is so well fleshed out and their personalities add so much to the film.

The message of this film is you don’t have to change who you are for anyone else. Stay true to yourself always.

Monster High 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Available now on DVD.

For more reviews of the latest films rated PG13 or younger, be sure to visit https://www.kidsfirst.org. Support our KIDS FIRST! Film Critic by donating to our annual fundraising campaign: https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal?ref=ab_bCo1e4

Dear Friends,

A Matching Gift Opportunity: I am thrilled to announce a $25,000 matching gift to KIDS FIRST! This means every dollar you donate will be doubled, up to $25,000.

The Coalition for Quality Children’s Media (CQCM), home to the KIDS FIRST! Film Critic program and KIDS FIRST! Film Festival, is seeking your support to bridge a critical funding gap between now and the end of the year.

We have a matching opportunity!  An anonymous donor will match your donation, up to $25,000.  This means your gift will have twice the impact on empowering young media consumers.

Since 1991, KIDS FIRST! has been at the forefront of media literacy, empowering young people to become discerning media consumers. Our unique approach centers on the voices of children, providing them with a platform to review films as they develop essential life skills. We have a team of 65 kids, ages 9 through 22, who attend press screenings, press junkets and film premieres. They review the latest films rated PG13 or younger and interview celebrities. Their reviews reach over 5 million people every week through the KIDS FIRST! website, blogs, social media and partnerships with like-minded publications. As one alumna, Samantha Marcus, recently told us:

“I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of California, San Diego with a BA inInternational Business. My journey toward the entertainment industry began with a pivotal role at KIDS FIRST! in 2016, where I worked as a radio show host and film critic. This rewarding experience provided me with a unique glimpse into the entertainment world, sparking my passion for marketing and business within this vibrant field. Witnessing Ranny Levy’s remarkable leadership and success at KIDS FIRST! deeply inspired me, positively shaping my professional path, encouraging me to find my voice and make the world a better place. 

Additionally, KIDS FIRST! curates a collection of indie and student films that we provide to film festivals, children’s museums and others that host screenings for youth and families. We have 30+ partners all across the US, plus 4 international partners in Ukraine, Pakistan, Uganda and India. These festivals focus on deep cultural, environmental and sociological issues such as environmental solutions, cross-cultural understanding, and empowering marginalized communities. Our festival screenings will reach over 500,000 kids and parents in 2025.

The young people we work with are truly remarkable. They aren’t just talking about making a difference; they’re doing it. I thought that you would resonate with the goals of this organization and be honored to help support its cause.

Become a partner!  Help us double our impact!  Donate today and have your gift matched, up to $25,000 at https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal. Alternatively, you can send a check to the address below.

Your donation supports:

• KIDS FIRST! Film Critics: Empowering young voices, reaching millions.
• KIDS FIRST! Film Festival: Inspiring change through film, reaching half a million.
• Education: Training the next generation of media critics and advocates.

With your support, we can continue to empower young people to make informed choices, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

SKIDS FIRST! Team

A sweeping family adventure, My Penguin Friend is a triumphant tale of friendship between a lonely father and a little lost penguin who recharges his spirit and heals his family with an unshakable, ocean-crossing loyalty. Humble fisherman João (Jean Reno) has turned away from the world in the wake of tragedy. But when he discovers a penguin drifting alone in the ocean, drenched in oil from a spill, his first instinct is to help. To his wife’s (Adriana Barraza) dismay, he not only rescues the sea creature, but takes the flightless bird under his wing. For the first time in years João starts to feel joy, even if he cannot fathom just how unbreakable a bond is being formed.  When the penguin suddenly disappears back into the immense wilds of the ocean, João believes it is impossible that he will ever see his friend again. But thousands of miles away, the penguin is caught in misadventures of his own, determined to use his unique GPS-like powers to find his way back to the place he now considers home. Based on a true story and filmed on the spectacular coasts of Brazil and Argentina, My Penguin Friend is a tale that traverses the magic of the ocean, the beauty of nature, and the transformative power of love.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “I love My Penguin Friend!  By the time this charming and heartfelt true story was over, I wanted my own cute and curious penguin pal. The thing that stands out to me the most in this movie is the penguin, Din Dim.” Hanadie K. adds, “My Penguin Friend beautifully illustrates the profound connection between humans and animals, reminding us of the transformative power of friendship and love.” Their full reviews and Braedyn’s interview are below and here is Zoe C.’s interview with the star and director:

My Penguin Friend
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I love My Penguin Friend!  By the time this charming and heartfelt true story was over, I wanted my own cute and curious penguin pal.

The story revolves around Joao (Jean Reno), an old fisherman who has been lonely most of his life.  That is, until he meets Din Dim the penguin.  Drenched in oil, the frail penguin is taken care of by Joao till he regains his strength.  While caring for Din Dim, Joao begins to feel an emotion he hasn’t felt in a long time – happy.  When Din Dim leaves unexpectedly one morning, Joao is certain he will never see Din Dim again.  However, unknown to Joao, a bond has been formed that not even the widest ocean can break, and it is only a matter of time before the little one returns.

The thing that stands out to me the most in this movie is the penguin, Din Dim.  I’m not sure if an actual trained penguin was used in this film or very sharp CGI.  I’m guessing he’s real.  Din Dim is very excited while exploring Joao’s house, even though Joao’s wife, Ma (Adriana Barraza) doesn’t approve.  He rummages through toilet paper, scarfs down fish, and makes a burrow out of old trinkets he finds.  He is quite humorous and cute at the same time.

I also really like the credits at the beginning; it has a cool painted compass design, with lots of details.  The plot is a bit hard to follow at first, and I didn’t understand it fully till later in the film.  But, the chemistry between Joao, Maria, and Din Dim is spot on.  Joao cares for the penguin deeply; Maria only tolerates having a wild animal in her home. And, Din Dim causes loads of chaos, making it lots of fun for everybody.  The background music, composed by Fernando Velázquez, really brings everything together with music that highlights what an emotional story this is.

The film’s message is about the loyalty that comes from caring for an animal. Joao cares for Din Dim, and the little penguin becomes a companion to Joao, making both of them very happy.  After a while, even Maria starts to play with Din Dim.

I give My Penguin Friend 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. My Penguin Friend releases in theaters on August 16 2024.  Go check it out!

My Penguin Friend
By Hanadie K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, 13

What a heartwarming and captivating film! My Penguin Friend beautifully illustrates the profound connection between humans and animals, reminding us of the transformative power of friendship and love.

Jean Reno delivers a deeply moving performance as João, capturing a man’s despair and the joy that blossoms as he bonds with this penguin. The film’s breathtaking cinematography, set on the beautiful coast of Brazil and Argentina, further enhances the emotions of this true story. It’s a touch that’s an inspiring story, perfect for anyone who loves heartfelt adventures.

My Penguin Friend follows the true story of João, a fisherman struggling with loss and isolating himself from the world. His life takes a surprising turn when he rescues a penguin named Dimdim, who’s been caught in an oil spill. As João cares for Dimdim, the bond they form helps him heal and rediscover happiness. When Dimdim returns to the wild, the story takes an emotional twist, highlighting the strength of their unique friendship.

What a perfect family film that offers a moving story which resonates with viewers of all ages. The lead characters in My Penguin Friend are brought to life by a talented cast. Jean Reno shines as João, perfectly capturing the mix of sorrow and hope in his character’s journey. Adriana Barraza delivers a strong performance as Maria, João’s wife, whose skepticism about the penguin adds depth to their relationship. The coastal locations in Brazil and Argentina are stunning and provide a beautiful backdrop for the story, making the film visually captivating.

My favorite part of the movie is when João tries to return Dimdim to the wild, only for the penguin to find its way back home miraculously. This moment highlights their unbreakable bond and is a powerful reminder of the unexpected connections we can form with animals. This is a heartwarming, family-friendly film that leaves you with a sense of hope and warmth. It offers a positive and uplifting message that encourages viewers to embrace life’s unexpected connections that can restore meaning and happiness.

The movie promotes positive social behavior, emphasizing the importance of empathy, family, and resilience.

The message of My Penguin Friend centers on the transformative power of love and connection, regardless of where it comes from. It reminds us of how, even small acts of kindness, like rescuing an animal in need, can lead to profound, life-altering relationships.

I give My Penguin Friend 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can catch this delightful movie in theaters starting August 16, 2024.

For more reviews of the latest films rated PG13 or younger, be sure to visit https://www.kidsfirst.org. Support our KIDS FIRST! Film Critic by donating to our annual fundraising campaign: https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal?ref=ab_bCo1e4