KIDS FIRST! News

Dear Friends,

For 33 years, KIDS FIRST! has been at the forefront of empowering young people to become critical media consumers. Our programs equip kids and their parents with the tools to discern age-appropriate content and make informed choices.

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Central to our mission is the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program. Our team of 65 dedicated young reporters, ages 9 to 22, immerse themselves in the world of film, attending press screenings, junkets, and red carpet events. They review the latest PG-13 and under-rated films, interview celebrities, and share their insights with over 5 million people through our website, social media, and partner publications.

Today, we are at a critical junction. To sustain and grow these impactful programs, we need your support. As we celebrate our 33rd anniversary, we’re asking for your help to fuel our mission. While our young reporters volunteer their time, our dedicated staff – responsible for training, coaching, editing, and promoting their work – requires financial support.

Another cornerstone of KIDS FIRST! is our Film Festival. We curate a collection of inspiring films that promote pro-social values, cultural understanding, environmental responsibility, and gender and racial equity. We have successfully co-hosted screenings with 30 venues across the USA and worldwide, including the Atlanta Children’s Film Festival, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Tallgrass Film Festival, Phoenix Film Festival, Peoria Film Festival plus partners in Ukraine, Pakistan, Uganda and India where we will reach over 500,000 youth and families in 2025.

Our goal is to cultivate a generation of informed and conscientious consumers. We measure our success not by awards, but by the positive impact we have on young lives. As we celebrate our 33rd Anniversary, we invite you to join us in shaping the future by making a donation of $33, $330, or $3300. https://fundrazr.com/kidsfirstglobal

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 partnership and support.

Sincerely,

KIDS FIRST! Team

The all-new Paramount+ original 2D animated series, Tales Of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, explores the adventures of everyone’s favorite pizza-loving heroes as they emerge from the sewers onto the streets of NYC. Leo, Raph, Donnie and Mikey are faced with new threats and team up with old allies to survive both teenage life and villains lurking in the shadows of the Big Apple.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryan M. comments, “KICK! SMASH! And Pizza! You know what this calls for?  Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! They are back with a lot of battles against… robots. This series is really good. I just love how each ninja has its moment. It is just so amazing – especially learning the reason that each of them has their own friend or has created something. This story is a new story. There are no monsters but a lot of robots.” See his full review and talent interviews below.

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles streaming on Paramount+ 2024. Photo credit: Paramount+

KICK! SMASH! And Pizza! You know what this calls for?  Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! They are back with a lot of battles against… robots. As a big fan of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and a lover of action animated series, I love Tales Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

The storyline follows Leonardo (Nicolas Cantu) writing an adventure story about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles where a lady named Bishop (Alanna Ubach) wants to eliminate them for destroying her lab. In the adventure, they all learn from different experiences: Raphael (Brady Noon) learns how to distract; Donatello (Shamon Brown Jr) learns how to go beast mode; Michelangelo (Micah Abbey) finds out how to make better strategies and Leonardo unlocks his independence. Plus, they team up to fight Bishop.

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Streaming on Paramount+. Photo Credit:Paramount+

This series is really good. I just love how each ninja has its moment. It is just so amazing – especially learning the reason that each of them has their own friend or has created something. This story is a new story. There are no monsters but a lot of robots. The story was written by Seth Rogen. It is just amazing how we dig into Leonardo’s comedic personality. That is really cool. The animation is really cool. One of my favorite parts is when Leonardo explains to the Turtles how to take down Bishop — such a good plan. And, I also love that the background is not perfect 3D or perfect 2D animation; it is a

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Streaming on Paramount+. Photo Credit:Paramount+

comic sketch in the background. They tried to make it resemble a comic book and I love that. I really love how every character except Leonardo makes a plan on their own and they all use the same line: that Leo’s job. When they get back together and fight Bishop it is the best fight of the series and is awesome. The character animation by James A. Castillo is outstanding; I love the suits they have at Bishop’s factory.

The show’s message is to always take advice because you never know when you will need it – just like every ninja. There is some negative language used; at some times the word idiot is used.

I give Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. This film begins streaming on Paramount+ August 9, 2024.

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.